

THE 








COMEB Y-^BRAMiJ 



BY 



"VV^^^ILiIDOIE^in X3". 



/ 



" THE NEW GODIVA " Is a Manuscript and as such this Copy (which 
ha>^ been put in this shape solely for convenience, and is Private Property 
and not for sale) is to be regarded. All persons are cautioned against 
representing or performing the piece or any part of It without permission, 
as Infringers will be prosecuted. 



COPYBIGHTED 1887. 





THE 




COMEJDY-DRAA 



IN FOUR ACTS, 



BY 



^W_A.31jIDO]E\F U. 



/ 



"THE NEW GODIVA " is a Manuscript and as such this Copy (which 
ha-i been put in this shape solely for convenience, and is Private Property 
and not for sale) is to be regarded. All pers'»ns are cautioned against 
representing or pe' forming the piece or any part of it without permission, 
as Infringers will be prosecuted. 



jAri 21 'oob /< 



Copyrighted 1887, 



3^ 






PRESS OF WM. P. HICKOK, NEW YORK 



TMP96-007u6i 



CHARACTERS REPRESENTED. 

LADY DEVERELL, afterwards Mrs. Morley, 

MISS ANASTASIA ANTIQUE, a giddy maiden of uncertain 
age but certain purpose, 

BLANCHE SOMERS, a "Ward of Chancery," . 

SUSAN, one of a great City's "White Slaves," 

SIR ARTHUR DEVERELL, "the curse of pride was his." 

MR. BULFINCH, Solicitor, ..... 

VAL POINDESTRE, in love with Blanche, 

HENRY ALBERT, "old boy, " "the certain purpose" of 
Miss Antique, ..... 

SILAS HERBERT, the Artist of "The New Godiva," . 

SIR JOHN BOLT, Admiral in " Her Majesty's Navy " , 

DOCTOR HUME, learned and human, . 

TOM, Sir Arthur's Valet, privileged to say what he pleases. 

DETECTIVE. 



Time;— The Present Decade. Scene;— England. 



SYNOPSIS. 



Act I. — At " Norton Towers," the home of the Deverells. Ruined! 
ActTI. — Room in a London Lodging House. The Sacrifice. 
Act IIL— (Six months later.) Drawing Room at Miss Antique's. 
First Tableau. — The Picture of a Sacrifice ! 
Second Tableau. —The Reward of a Sacrifice ! 
(Special Notice,— The Curtain will be lowered upon the First Tab- 
leau for one minute only. The audience is earnestly requested to 
remain seated.) 
Act IV.— (One year later.) At Chiswick Villa, Lady Deverell's 
home. Forgiien. 



PROPERTIES. 

A.CT I.— Billiard Cues, etc, Music Portfolio on Piano, Fan for Miss 
Antique, Segars and Matches for Sir Arthur, Newspaper on Table, 
Hat for Bulfinch, Segars and Matches for Bulfinch, A Legal Docu- 
ment for Bulfinch, Whip for Lady Deverell. 

Act IL— Glasses and Dishes on Cupboard, Tray of dishes and food 
on it for Susan, A Purse for Mrs. Morley, Handsome Boquet in a tum- 
bler of water for Tom, Pen and Ink on Cupboard, Prescription Pad for 
Dr. Hume, Apron for Susan to wear, A Saucer and Egg for Susan, 
Duster on Cupboard. 

Act ILL— Painting of "The New Godiva " on large Easel, A News- 
paper on Lounge, Snuffbox for Bulfinch, Note Book for Bulfinch. 

Act IV.— Writing Materials on Table, A small bottle or Vial for 
Albert, A Legal Document for Val., Badge for Detective. 




THE NEW GODTVA. 



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THE NEW GODIVA, 



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■iix'a 



THE NEW GODIYAI 



ACT I. 



RUINED ! 



Scene: 



The Library at "Norton Towers" opening into Billiard Room which 
is separated from it by a Portierre,the Curtains of which are drawn wide 
open — Large French folding Windows at back opening on a Porch. 
ThrougTi these windows is seen the Terrace and grounds of Norton 
Towers and Roadway leading to the house — The Library and Billiard 
Room are handsomely furnished — Piano L, half-way up Stage — Large 
Arm Chair C. by a Center Table — i.\ | Lounge down Stage R. — Bil- 
liard Table, etc., in Billiard Room — Pictures, Statuary, Chairs, etc. 

At the rise of Curtain Sir Arthur Deverell and Sir John Bolt discov- 
ered playing Billiards — Miss Antique (an " Old Maid" dressed like and 
aping the manners of "Sweet Sixteen,") sitting on Lounge. - Henry 
Albert, a middle-aged Bachelor, stands near her — Blanche Somers is at 
the Piano, Val Poindestre bending over her. They are turning over 
the leaves of a Music Portfolio— Miss Antique toys with a Fan. 

Music As Curtain Rises. 



Miss An. As my poor, dear Mamma used to sky, what tender 
thoughts such weather as this inspires. Come sit down here by my 
side, wont you, Mr. Albert? {He does so.) So your Sister is engaged? 

Albert. Yes, — to Lord Fitzgerald. Know Lord Fitzgerald? No? 
Well, you ought to. Gave her a dress, — beautiful White Satin trimmed 
down the front with rubies and with diamonds for buttons behind ! 
Fact! 



lO THE NEW GODIVA. 

Miss An. How beautiful ! How nice it must be to be engaged ! 

Albert. From my observation I should say it is frequently much 
better than being married, old girl. 

Miss An. Please dont call me old girl. 

Albert Cant help it — habit I have, — dont mean anything. 

Miss An. But I dont like it. Julia — you can call me Julia ! 

Albert. Eh? 

Miss An. I said you could call me Julia. 

Albert, {inoving away .) Oh, — can I ? 

Miss An. {drawing close /o him.) Yes, — Henry, dear! 

Albert, {aside — edging to end of lounge.) Henry dear! The old 
girl's coming it strong. What's she up to ? 

Miss An. {After moving so close as to almost tumble him off the 
lounge, than catching him as he is about to tumble, and draioing him 
back.) Did you ever have a tender attachment, Henry? It must be a 
terrible thing to break a tender attachment. 

Albert. I should say so, old girl, — often causes a Railway accident ! 

Miss An. [moving closer.) I dont mean that. I -I — I mean — love ! 

Albert, {trying to get away.) Gracious! 

Miss An. {drawing him back.) Why, why dont you get a sweet- 
heart for yourself? I'm sure some little girl loves you. 

Albert Ye— Oh, yes! All love me — cant help it, you know. 
Trouble is I love all of them ! 

Miss An. And I'm sure you are old enough to marry! {G'gglcs 
over Fan. ) 

Albert. Ye — yes; I've cut my eye teeth ! 

Miss An. {grasping his arm suddenly.) And so — so have I ! {Covers 
her face with Fan.) 

Albert, {aside.) She's coming it too heavy ! She's after me ! 

Sir Arthur {making a shot.) That's a bad miss. I deserve to lose 
the game for that. 

Sir John, {shooting and missing.) Ha, ha ! That isn't much better. 

Miss An. Think what it is to have a dear, dear wife ! 

Albert, {aside.) She might be too confounded dear ! 

Miss An. How pleasant it would be to come home and find a loving 
woman's heart waiting for you to smooth away your cares and — and 
kiss you ! 

Albert, {attempting to rise.) Excuse me, — we'll continue this some 
other time. 

Miss An. {pulling him back.) Dont go, Henry. — Henry dear ! 
{Leans her head on his shoulder.) 



J 



THE NEW GODIVA. I I 

Albert. {asi(/c\) Confound it! she's getting powder all over my 
coat. I'm perspiring from head to foot! 

Miss An. Ah what it is to possess such a love ! See how happy Sir 
Arthur and Lady Deverell are. My poor, dear Mamma used to de- 
scribe to me the kind of man she'd liked to have seen my husband. 

Albert, {asu/e.) Hem! this will let me out. {aloud,) Yes? What 
was he like ? 

Miss An. {hiding her face on his bosom.) Just 1 ke you ! 

Albert, {aside;.) Hang it ! she's getting worse and worse ! 

Blanche, (to Val.) Just see those two ! I shall certainly laugh out- 
right in a minute. 

Val. I must rescue the poor old chap. The giddy girl's making a 
dead break for him. 

Blnache. Dont interfere; you'll spoil the fan. 

Miss An. Oh, how happy I feel ! 

Albert, (a-iidi^.) I dont! 1 must change the subject somehow. 
{aloud.) Oh-ah, what a pretty dress you have on, old girl. {Feeling it.) 
Must be very expensive goods. 

Miss An. Would yoa really like to know what it cost? 

Albert, {aside.) What in thunder is she up to now? 

Miss An. {si'jnificantly .) You know there's a way to inspect my 
bills ! 

Albert, {starting.) Oh, -ah, -yes! (aside.) Put my foot in it again ! 

Miss An. {suddenly.) Henry ! dont you — dont you do it ! 
Albert, {desperately.) See here, old girl, I dont understand you! 

Miss An. You naughty man ! dont try to kiss me yet I 

Albert, {trying to get away.) I'm not doing; anything of the kind, 
old girl ! 

Miss An. Well, you may, —just one, though. I'll close my eyes ! 
{Closes her eyes and holds up her mouth.) 

Val. I must rescue him ! {Comes down to them while B]anche strik> s 
a chord loudly on Piano.) Oh, Mr. Albert,— I beg your pardon; I hope 
I'm not intruding. 

Albert, {jumping up and grasping his handiihile Miss Antique re- 
sumes a formal attitude,) Not at all, not at all, old boy ! We were just 
t liking about you ! 

Blanche. {comi)ig doivn--laughing.) And we were just talking about 
you ! Its ver. fu ny, — ha, ha, ha ! 

Miss An. \rising--indignantly.) Excu e me; 1 dont see anything 
funny in it! {Flounces out R. ; they laugh.) 

Albert, {to VaL) Awfully obliged to you, old boy ! Whomever yoa 



.12 THE NEW GODIVA. 

see the old girl and I alone, come to my rescue, will you ? If you 
dont or somebody dont, one of these days before I know it I'll be a 
goner ! 

Blanche. For shame, Mr. Albert, to run away from true love so. 
{Goes back to Pim%o and plays softly,) 

Val. I'll try to oblige you but I cant always be around. 

Albert. Hem ! that's a hmt I'm not wanted. [Nods significantly to 
rvards Blanche.) All right, old boy ; one good turn deserves another. 
I'll go smoke. {Strolls into Billiard Room., stops to look at game a 
minute, then exits through Porch.) 

Val. {going to. Blanche, turning Piano Stool around so that she faces 
audience, and standing by her, his back to Piano.) Blanche, do you know 
what is the difference between those two and ourselves ? 

Blanche. Well really, you are very flattering ! A'ou'll be comparing 
me to M?w Merriles next, I suppose. 

Val. Oh, a truce to your perpetual bantering. Can't you be serious 
a mo:nent ? 

Blanche. Idon'tknow,-Icantry. And, pray, what is the difference ? 

Val. {taking her hand.) She wants t > marry him and he woTlt con- 
sent; I want to marry you a.nd you wont consent. 

Blanche {rising, laughing and crossing to Lounge.) Oh, there 
wou'dn't be any use in my consenting. 

Val. {crossing to her.) And why not ? 

Blanche. Because you must ask the Lord Chancellor,— I'm a Ward 
of Chancery. 

Val. {sitting by her.) That makes no difference. 

Blanche. Oh dont it, though ! Let me tell you that the Lord 
Chancellor is very particular. And perhaps you may have painted a 
portrait— one of your retil bad portraits! — of him some time or other, 
and that - that would be fatal ! 

Val. Oh, thank you. I thought you said you'd try to be serious for 
a minute. 

Blanche. Well, lam. I like you very much indeed, — there ! I 
haven't said anything like that before and I'm blushing feaifully, I 
know ! But the Lord Chancellor isn't any joke ! {placing her liand on 
his knee and looking tip at him.) ' I've seen him ! 

Val. {placing arm around her waist. ) Indeed ! Were you greatly 
frightened ? 

Blanche. Scared to death when I first went in; but I wr.s so dis- 
appointed! {Leans her head on his shoulder.) I thought he always 
sat on a woolsack and wore a big ugly wig; but he was in a plain chair 



THE NEW GODIVA. 1 3 

and his head was bald and he didn't look particularly different fiom 
any other man ! 

Val. That is very strange ! Did he bite? 

Blanche. No ; but he could have sent me to prison if he had liked. 

Val. [drawing her closer.) Oh, indeed ! 

Blanche. Yes indeed! You needn't make fun of him either. They 
tell me he has the ri :^ht if any one marries me without his consent, to 
transport him ! 

Val. I should certainly be transported if I married you; so 111 risk 
your terrible Lord Chancellor. 

Blanche. What pretty things you can say. Tfyou flntter the Loid 
Chancellor as you do me, he'll certainly consent. 

Val. May I try ? 

Blanche. Yes, —if you'll risk transportation. {He kisses h,r.) 

Sir x\tiTHUR. {making a carcvn.) Game! {A horse head approaching.) 
Ah ! here comes Lady Deverell ! 

Blanche, [disejigaging herself and Jumping tip.) Good gracious. 
Val ! let me go ! {Rushes over to Piano, he following, and pretends 
plaving.) 
Enter LaDY Dea^erell on horseback. SlR Arthur goes out on Porch 

and helps her dismount.. Groom leads off horse. She greets SiYi John 

and comes down front. They all surround her. 

Blanche. My dear Kate, where have you been all morning ? 

Lady D. I've been loo'ving over Mr. Nugent's stud which Sir Ar 
thur has just bought. They are a magnificent lot of animals. 

Sir John, {aside.) Another jiiece of extravagance. Where will it 
end ? [Scats himself on Piano Stool.) 

Sir Arthur. I am glad you are pleased with my purchase. 
Blanche. Was there ever a woman so fond of horses as you are ? 

i,.A.DY D. {loith a little laugh.) Re.illy, T am afraid not, — unless it is 
you. 

Val. There certainly never was one who sat a saddle with diviner 
grace. 

Lady. D. Flatterer ! 

Blanche. He's practicing for an at'.ack on the Loid Chance lor. 
But you leally are a Lady Gay Spanker in your love for horses and 
hunting. 

L\DV D. P^rhapv, I know I often feel like repea'ing what Ldy Gay 
says: "Give me the trumpet- neigh, the spotted pack just catching 
scent. What a chorus is their yelp ! The view — hallo blent with a pral 
of free and feirless mirth Time then appears as young as love and 



H THE NEW GODIVA. 

plumes as swift a wing. Away we go ! The earth flies back to aid our 
course ! Horse, man, hound, earth, heaven, — all — all— one piece of 
glowiug ecstacy ! Then I love the world, myself, and every living 
thing. My soul cries out for very glee as it could wish that all creation 
had but one mouth that I might kiss it !" 

Sir Arthur. Only I'm not Spanker, and I should object to your 
kissing all creation. But I've a proposition to make. What do you 
say to a ride to Deaham Chase and back ? The Autumn foliage is in 
its splendor now. 

Lady D. Do you mean to-day, Arthur ? 

Sir Arthur, Yes— at once, if ever, body will approve. Those who 
like to ride can have a mount, and (hose who prefer driving can take 
the wagonette. You'll join. Sir John ? 

Sir John. No, thank you. I prefer to stay here. But dont let me 
interfere— I'll amuse myself. 

Lady D. But we are forgetting we have other guests. Where aie 
they? 

Blanche. I'll answer for everybody. Come, Val, we'll hunt them 
up. Miss Antique doesn't ride so Mr. Albert will have to risk his neck 
on horse-back to escape her. What a funny sight that will be ! 
{Laughs.') 

Sir Arthur. I'll keep the Admiral company until you are ready- 
Call me, please. 

Lady D. We wont be but a few moments- Come along, you two. 

Exit Lady D. ^.followed by Blanche and Val. 

Sir John, (changing his seat to large Arm Chair C. by center table. 
Sir Arthur leans against Lounge. So you hive bought Nugent's 
stud ? 

Sir Arthur. Yes, every i<em — horses, yearlings, paddocks and all, 
mcluding taking over tha stud grooms. Will you smoke? {Offers 
Segar.) 

Sir John. Thank you. (Lights Segar. They smoke. Sir Arthur 
sits on Piano Stool.) Upon vcif soul, Arthur, your extravagance 
makes my hair stand on end. Was Nugent hard up ? 

Sir Arthur. At the last gasp, I believe. To tell the truth I didn't 
care much about the Stud, but I like Nugent and I knew he had to 
make a quick turn to save himself from bankruptcy. 

Sir John. [Reflectively.) A man who inherited a fortune fit for a 
King! He ought to be sent to a lunatic asylum ! {Pauses^ Arthur, if 
you dont look out, you'll get into the same scrape yourself. 



THE NEW GODIVA. 1 5 

Sir Arthur, [laughing.) Ha, ha. what an idea ! Bulfinch and Keith 
look too closely after my . fFairs. 

Sir John, {turning to him.) A great deal too closely, perhaps. 

Sir Arthur, {rising and crossing to him.) What do you mean? 
The Bulfinch's have been Solicitors to the Deverell's from time im- 
memorial I'd as soon mistrust myself as mistrust Bulfinch or Keith, 
though I'm not over lond of Bulfinch personally. I Ynow you have al- 
ways disliked him. 

Sir John. That's putting it mild. See here, Arthur, I've known 
you since you were a boy and I feel privileged to say what I think. I 
tell you you put too much confidence in those men. Do you ever look 
over an account ? 

Sir Arthur, (resting on table.) Never! 

Sir John. Or read a document ? 

Sir Arthur. Never ! I signed two day betore yesterday without 
looking at them. 

Sir John, {rising and facing him,) Then hang me, but you deserve 
to be swindled ! 

Sir Arthur, {going to him.) Sir John, either my confidence in peo- 
ple is unlimited or I haven't any. If I suspected a man I wouldn't 
keep him in my employ a minute. Suspicion is demoralizing. 

Sir John. And over confidence creates temptation, and from temp- 
tation to deceit is a very short step. 

Sir Arthur. Not if people are honest. 

Sir John. Indeed ! And how many are honest ? Not one in a 
thousand. 

Sir Arthur. My dear Sir John, that's your worldly view of things 
— the cold cynical theory of age. 

Sir John. Born of the mistaken sentimentality of youth ! You 
ought to b^ more careful, Arthur, for the sake of your angel of a wife* 
if not for your own. 

Enter Lady Deverell, R. 

Lady D. {advancing to him.) We are all ready, Arthur. I'm sorry 
you will not join us Sir John; it doesn't seem polite to leave you alone. 

Sir John. Oh, my dear girl, I like solitude as you know. 

Sir Arthur. And he deserves it. Come here, Kate. {She goes to 
him, he puts one arm around her ivaist.) What do you think he's been 
saying ? 

Lady D. Nothing uncomplimentary to me, I'm sure. 



1 6 THE NEW GODIVA. 

Sir Arthur. No, we are agreed that you are an Angel. But he as 
good as intimated that I dont think as much of you as I should. 
Lady D. [to Sir John.) Did you? 

Sir John. Not at all in that sense. 

Sir Arthur. Kate, do you think I love you ? 

Lady D. Do I think you love me? If I did not think so I — I would 
die ! Oh, Arthur, how can you ask me such a question? 

Sir Arthur. Because some people say I dont appreciate you. 

Lady D. That is because you are too proud to wear your heart on 
your slaeve. But pride is the Deverell's heritage, —and really, Arthur, 
sometimes I think you have too much of it. But if rfir John said any- 
thing about your not appreciating me he was only teasing, I'm sure. 
(Going to Sir yohn and taking his hands to hers.) Wasn't you, now, 
— or did you really mean it ? 

Sir John. Nonsense ! I know he worships you. I only told him he 
ought to be more careful in business matters for your sake. But come, 
if you are going to Denham Chase you had better start or you wont be 
back in time for dinner, — and if there's anything I hate it's waiting 
for that. 

Sir Arthur. Come, Kate; if Sir John wishes anything he knows 
where to find it. 

Lady D. Au rei'oir, then; and I'll see that we dont keep you wait- 
ing for dinner. {Laughs and Exits on Sir Arthur^ arm through 
Porch.) 

Sir John, {re-lighting segar, taking a newspaper and crossing to exit 
R.) Well, I do hope if only for the sake of his devoted and beautiful 
wife that no reverse of fortune will overtake Sir Arthur; but when one 
has been living for years at such a rate of extravagance as he has and is 
so entirely careless, not even an income of twenty thousand a year can 
stand it. {Exits R.) 

Enter TOM., R. C. 

Tom. This way, Mr. Bulfinch, this way. {Enter Bnljinch, hat in 
hand.) Now, then, what can I do for you? 

BuLF. Go to the devil ! 

Tom. [making a profound bow.) Thank you — much obliged to you — 
I'm in no hurry. Just as close as I want to be now. 

BuLF. Where's your master? 

Tom. He's out. 

Bui.F. Where's your mistress? 



THE NEW GODIVA. 1 7 

Tom. She's out too. I told you that but you would insist upon com- 
ing up here yourself. Now, then, look perhaps you'll find them under 
the sofa. {Looks tinder Sofa.) I dont see them. 

IjULF, See here, I've had enough of your impertinence upon other 
occasions. I dout want any more. If your Master chooses to tolerate 
your iamiliarities, I dont. Remember, I represent the law. 

Tom. I have loads of respect for the law, Mr. Bulfinch, but mighty 
little for some of its representatives. 

BuLF. When will Sir Arthur return ? 

Tom. I dont kno\n — I forgot to ask him. You can sit down and 
wait, if you want to — there's no silver lying around loose! I'll take 
your hat. {Snatches hat out of his hand, goes to Piano and places it 
forcibly on Piano.) 

IJuLF. {going to hif/t — angrily.) What do you mean by crushing my 
hat? 

Tom. (bozaing profusely.) Beg pardon, beg pardon; I thought it 
was you ! 

BuLF. It you weren't so far beneath me I'd give you a thrashing you 
wouldn't forget in a hurry. 

Tom. Dont let my being a servant interfere with your gratifi- 
cation, Mr. Bulfinch. Come on —try it ! {strikes fighting attitude.) 
BuLF. {going to him.) You insolent hound ! 

Tom, {sparring behind him.) Oh, wouldn't I like to, though! Um! 
{Goes to Piano, strikes out at Bulfiyich'' s hat knocking it off the Piano.) 
Lord ! if his head liad only been in it ! {Picks up hat, and brtishes it off 
with his sleeve.) 

BuLF. ' {grasping him by shoulder.) You shall pay for this ! {Enter 
Sir John R.) 

Tom. {knocking his hand off.) Hands off, Mr. Bulfinch, or it wont be 
healthy for you 1 

Sir John. Hello ! Tom, what does this mean ? 

Tom. Mr. Bulfinch, Sir John —we dont agree — we never do ! {Put^ 
Bulfinch'' s hat on Piano . ) 

Sir John. Leave the room. 

ToM. Yes, Sir John — beg your pardon, Sir John, {at door, aside.) You 
dont like him any better than I do, Sir John. Ugh ! I'd give a month's 
wages just to hit him from the shoulder once ! {Opens door by striking 
it savagely with his fist, and exits banging it after him.) 

BuLF. Good afternoon. Sir John, Lovely afternoon, I hope you 
are well. 

Sir John. Thank yon. I am always well. 



1 8 THE NEW GODIVA. 

BuLF. Ah, yes, I know. Shall I take a seat? {Seats himself in 
Arm-chair. Sir yohn remains staniing by Lounge.) Sir Arthur out, I 
believe ? 

Sir John, Yes ; they're all out. 

BuLF. Uont mind my smoking, do you ? {^Lights a Segar.) Ah 
well, I'm not altogether sorry to find you alone. You are a very old 
friend, 1 believe, Sir John ? 

Sir John. His oldest friend and his f ither's before him. I look upon 
him as my own son. 

BuLF. That is very fortunate. You can smooth matters down. 

Sir John. {Approaching hifn ) Smooth matters down ? I dont un- 
derstand you. Ifj'ouhave anything to say, say it. Is Sir Arthur in 
a!iy difficulty? 

BuLiF. WjU— ah, — well — the fact \?, — {rising.) Percival Ke.th has 
bolted ! 

Sir John. Percival Keith — ran away ? 

BuLF. Yes — clean gone —not seen since yesterday morning, — evap 
orated. 

Sir John, {sitting on lounge.) Well,^wbat of it? On second thoughts 
1 consider it good -riddance to bad rubbish. 

BuLF. Just so. Sir John, just so, — if it wasn't for the consequences. 

Sir John What consequences, Mr. Bulfinch ? 

BuLF. Well — ah — say the breaking up of this lovely establishment, 
the sale of the estates, the 

Sir John, {grasping hi??i savagely by the shoulder.) Great Heavens! 
Sir, what do you mean ? 

BuLF. If you'll kindly remove your hand, Sir John. My shoulder is 
lender. {Sir yohn does so — Bulfinch rubs his shoulder.) Ah, thank 
you. To come down to plain matter of fact. Sir Arthur's reckless course 
for years has resulted in hopelessly encumbering the estates, — some 
heavy sums are now due — and Mr. Keith has taken all the avaihible 
cash with him ! 

Sir John. {Sinking in Arm-Chair.) Is this possible? Why, he had 
a clear twenty-thousand a year. 

BuLF. {on Piano Stool.) Exactly, — quite correct. But if you have 
twenty and live at the rate of forty, you can hardly end up a Millionaire. 

Sir John, {after a pause.) I never dreamed of this. I knew he was 
reckless, but I did not suppose he was on the brink of ruin. 

BuLF. Excuse me, Sir John, he's not on the brink, he's at the bottom 
of the pit, Sir, —absolutely and unqualifiedly the bottom ! 

Sir John. { going to him threateningly ^) Upon my soul. Sir, I should 



THE NEW GODIVA. I9 

like to pitch you after him ! It was your place as his legal adviser to 
take care of him, you 

BuiiF. {rising ) Gently, Sir John, gently. I was not his legal ad- 
viser, — I simply transacted legal matters for him. Kindly observe the 
distinction. 

Sir John. What legal matters? 

BuLF. Oh, — well — ah, leases loans, mortgages 

Sir John. Mortgages ! 

BuLF. Most certainly, — mortgages upon mortgages and at heavy in- 
terest, — some on this charming place, too. 

Sir John, {sitting on Lounge.) In heaven's name, what is to be the 
result of all this? 

BuLF. Foreclosure— ruin -penury — possibly arrest I . 

Sir John, [springing up ) Never! Never, s-o heJp me Htaven! if I 
spend the last shilling I have in the world ! 

Bjlf. [cooly, si"ing in Ann-chair.) Very fine, Sir John, very fine! 
Sounds like Damon and Pythias. I honor your warm heart, but I fear 
its larger than your Bank account. The estates might have cleared him, 
— but the money I Fifteen thousand, for example, lodged in Bank to 
pay Nugent for bis stud, carried off in clean cash. Another check for 
three thousand for a single picture — presented this morning and dis- 
honored. And Lord knows how many more for just such useless trum- 
pery ! Fact is, Sir John, Sir Arthur never understood the value of 
money — thought an income like his would stretch out indefinitely like 
India Rubber, but even rubber will snap at a certain point. Sir Arthur, 
I am sorry to say, — deeply sorry, believe me,— has reached that point. 

Sir John, [crossing to hif?i excitedly.) I do not believe you are sorry, 
I bsiieve you are an infernal villian and hypocrit, Sir ! 

BuLF. [rising— coofy.) That's slander. Sir John. I suppose you know 
there's a law against it. 

Sir John. It was your place Sir, when he came to you about these 
loins and mortgages to have remonstrated and advised him- the least 
you could have done as his family solicitor. 

Bu F. My dear Sir, I was assured by Keith that he would never read 
a single document; and as for remonstrating and advising him,— on a 
question of law, yes; on his personal conduct — well, I know my place 
better A proud lot the?e Deverell's, — always were — prouder thru 
Lucifer ! He'd have told me to go to the Devil ! 
Sir John. That's where you ought to go. Sir ! 

BuLF, [puffing Segar ) Ah, yes, that may be your opnion,— but 
it isn't mine! 



20 THE NEW GODIVA. 

Sir John. Whg,t opinion can I have when you admit you went on 
drawing deeds which meant simply ruin, without insisting on an ex- 
planation? Did you consider that right? 

BuLF. [sitting.) I did ; perhaps it was a mistake. But it is useless 
agitating yourself further, Sir John ; we must all submit to the decrees 
of Providence. 

Sir John, [approaching kirn.) Do you call this a decree of Prov- 
idence ? 

BuLF. Why^of course. 

Sir John, {facing him.) Providence may decree that a man who 
wont look after his own affairs should come to grief; but it is equally a 
decree of Providence that I slnuld call all those who have had a hand in 
this affair a set of infernal swindlers, Sir ! {bringijig fist down on table ) 

BuLF. {rising.) Excuse me, Sir John, but you are exceeding the 
legal limits of vituperation. 

Sir Joh.v. (grasping him,) It woulln't take much more. Sir, to make 
me exceed the limits oi castigation allowed by law, {Shakes him.) 
(During this last speech Lady DeVERELL has appeared on the Porch 

and now comes down hurriedly.) 

Lady D. Why, Sir John, — what does this mean? {Sir "John releases 
Buljinch.) 

RuLF. Lady Deverell I {Goes to Piano.) 

Sir John. Kate ! you back ? What has happened ? 

Lady D. Arthur's horse lost a shoe and the wagonette broke down 
at the same time; so we've had to return. Now, allow me to ask what 
has happened here ? 

Sir John, {nej-vously.) Nothing, Kate, -nothing. Mr. Bulfinch 
and I have been having alittle dispute* 

Lady D. I know better, — something has happened; I see it in your 
face. Tell me,— what is it? 

Sir John. Where is Sir Arthur ? 

Enter Sir Arthur /;'<?/^ Porch. 

Sir Arthur. I am here {Advances to them.) Hello! you here, 
Bulfinch ? 

BuLF. Perhaps -perhaps it would be as well if Lady Deverell would 
retire. 

\.h.YiYV).{ going to Sir Arthur.) Lady Deverell'^ place, if there is 
any trouble, is by her husband's side. Arthur, sit down. {Seats hint 
in arm-chair and stands by him.) Do not deceive me; I see that some- 
thing terrible has occurred. I have had a feeling of evil over me all 
day — I haven't known why. Arthur, please let me remain. 



THE NEW (lODTVA. 21 

SirArhtuk. {taking her hand) Sir John, — Mr. Bulfinch, — have you 
lost your tongues ? 

Sir John. It is a hard task for one who loves you as I do to— to — 
Heaven help you to bear it patiently ! 

Sir Arthur. What on earth do you mean ? 

BuLF. He means, Sir Arthur, that Mr. Percival Keith has absconded 
with a large sum of your money ! 

Eady D. Impossible ! 

Sir Arthur. Keith absconded"? I decline to believe it 

Sir John. It is only too true, — Kate, wont you leave us ? 

Lady D. No ! You have not tvild the worst. What is it? • 

Sir xArthur. {after a pause.') Go on, gentlemen. After tellirg me 
that the man I trusted as if he were my own brother, has played me 
false, I am not likely to be greatly disturbed by any further intelligence. 

Lady D. [taking his hand.) Arthur! 

Sir Arthur, [after a pause.') Goon, gentlemen; I am waiting. 

Sir John, [breaking doron and sinking on Lounge.) I— I — cannot 
say it. 

Lady D. Then, Mr. Bulfinch. show us your face. Speak out, man. 

BuLF. [turning around.) If I must, I must. Pardon my abruptness; 
Dev^rell— 'vou are a ruined man ! 

Sir Atrhur. Great Heavens! [Drops into A j-ni -chair, and buries his 
face in his hands on table.) 

Lady D. [bending over him.) Arthur, I am here— by your side. 
Don't give way so; for my sake, be brave and face the worst. It may 
not be so terrible. 

Sir John. It is useless disguising the fact, Kate. Arthur's prop- 
erty is hopelessly involved; the scoundrel has effected his complete ruin. 

Sir Arthur, (looking up.) It is ridiculons to talk of complete x\x\\\ 
with my income ! Tell me plainly, Mr, Bulfinch to w^hat extent am I 
involved ? Must I mortgage this place ? 

BuLF.. Hem — ha, — it is already done. 

Sir Arthur. What is done? 

BuLF. Norton Towers is mortgaged ! And to the last farthing it s 
worth ! 

Sir Arthur, [rising.) It is a lie! Who authorized such a mortgage, 
I should like to know? 

Bulk, [handing him a paper ) Vou did ! Look at it! 

Sir .Arthur, [looking at paper.) The villian ! he never told me the 
contents. 

BuLF. You declined to hear them, he told me, I-n t that true? 



22 THE NEW GODIVA. 

Sir Arthur. Too true— damn him ! 

Lady D. Arthur ! be cahn— for my sake. 

BuLF. You cant save a hundred pounds from the wreck. 

Sir John. Why not? If Nugent will withdraw his claim — 

Sir Arthur. He will not ! I will not allow him. 

Sir John, {rising.) Arthur, think of your wife — 

Sir Arthur. My wife ! oh, Kate ! {sinks into Arm Chair.) 

Lady D. [caressing him.') Arthur ! Arthur ! As long as T have you 
I am content. If the rest must all go, let it go ! Your honor is dearer 
to me than money, and we will save it at any sacrifice, 

BuLF,. Hem ! supposing the estate wont cover the liabilities, Nu- 
gent will have to take his share with the rest. 

Lady D, The estate shall cover the liabilities if our last acre in the 
world has to be sold, the last picture on the walls ! {Blanche, Val. Miss 
Antique, Albert a fid Guests appear on Porch, talki))g together, etc.) 

BuLF. [aside.) I'll humble the Deverell pride yet, my lady ! 

Lady D {crossing to Bui/inch.) Mr, Bulfinch, an instinct tells me 
that you are at the bottom of this villiany ! Heaven pardon me if T am 
wrong; but if I am not, mark my words: your crime will one dny find 
you out as sure as there is a God above us ! Leave this house ! 

Sir Arthur, (rising.) Kate! {She goes to him.) My own, brave 
wife ! [embrac'ng her.) Can you ever forgive me for bringing this ruin 
upon you ? Heaven help me ! how can I ask you to share privation 
with me, — how — 

Lady D. Hush, Arthur! not a word of reproach. I should be un. 
worthy your name if I forgot your honor; I should merit only con- 
tempt if I forgot the vows I pledged at the altar, — to love and cherish 
and care for you, in sickness as in health — 'in sorrow as in sunshine, — 
in adversity as in prosperity, — oh, Arthur, — my love, — my husband ! 
[Her arms are around his neck. He bends to kiss her as Curtain falls.) 

Curtain — ^Picture. 

Sir John on Lounge, attitude of dejection — BULFINCH by Piano, hat in 
hand, sneering — -Other characters and GueSts on Porch as stated 
above. — Lady D, aWSiR Arthur C, 



END OF ACT L 



THE NEW GODIVA. 23 



ACT II. 



THE SACRIFICE! 



vSCENE : 



A Room in a London Cheap Lodging House-It is barely furnished 
evidencing great poverty-A door, (practicnl.) L. C. back, apparently 
opening into another Room-Table C.-A small Fireplace np Stage R. 
-Fire in It— A couple of chairs in the Room -Small cupboard R 
against back of scene. Some glasses and dishes upon it ; also Pen and 
Ink. 

As Curtain rises Enter Susan. She carries in one hand a small 
Tray with some dishes and food upon it, and in the other a black 
Kett.e. She places the Tray upon the Table, and the Kettle on the 
Fire, steadying it after much difficulty. Then turns around with her 
hands on her hips. 



Susan. Oh my precious legs ! Whatever hin the world made people 
build 'ouses hup hin the sky, bothers me ! Must be ha purpose to try 
servant's legs. Hits lucky mine's ha pair hof good 'uns ! Four pair 
hof stairs hup here, twenty-five to heach pair, to go hup hand down 
ha dozen times ha mornin',— that mayn't be a thousand steps hall told 
but hit feels mighty like hit. One might has well go to ha treadmill 
hand be done with hit! [Takes a Duster and brushes around.) 'Ow- 
sumever I'd wear my feet dow" to stumps for these two hup 'ere. Ha 
real lady she his -dont hoften see 'em ! Has for him, poor devil! you 
might blow him haway with a sixpenny bellus ! [Coughing heard out- 
side. Susan by table.) Hear that ! He's wuss hagain to-day— seems 
has hif he'd break to pieces when he coughs. Hi wouldn't give ha 
halfpenny for his living hm this 'ere fog hand smoke. 
Enter Mrs. Morley {Lady Deverell,) through door L. C. back. She 
is dressed very plainly and is very pale. Walks very slowly. 



24 THE NEW GODIVA. 

Susan. Good-mornin', Mum. — 'ow his Mr. Morley this morniu'? 

Mrs. M. He's had a bad night, Susan. {Advancing and taking her 
hand?) Susan, I am very sorry to trouble you but would you bring 
me up a little saucer and one of the new laid eggs? 

Susan, [aside.) Oh, my precious legs! {aloud.) No trouble hat hall, 
Mum, — for you. There's honly one hegg left, though. 

Mrs. M. That is all I want. Why, Susan, you've forgotten to wash 
your face again. 

Susan. Haint 'ad time, Mum. Besides hits no huse whatsumever. 

Mrs. M. Why not Susan ? 

Susan. Cos I should be has black has a nigger in 'alf han 'our 
again Was you hever hin ha London lodging-'ouse kitchen, Mum? 

Mrs. M. I must confess I never have been, Susan. 

Susan. Then dont you never go. You wouldn't hexpect my face to 
be clean hif you did! hand I'll warrant you'd never heat no moie din- 
ner has long has you're 'ere. 

Mrs. M. {sitting by Table.) Oh, Susan ! 

Susan. What with the beetles hand bother things has crawls hover 
heverythink hits henough to hupset me let halone ha lady like you. 
Beetles his bad enough when you're hawake ; but when you're hasleep, 
— well, they're worse ! 

Mrs. M. Asleep ? Surely you do not sleep down there? 

Susan. There haint no place helse for me. I've got used to hit hand 
my beauty wont spoil. But I'll get the hegg, Mum. (Exits R.) 

Mrs. M. Poor thing ! poor thing ! She has a good heart in spite of 
her dirty face. And after all who is better off — she or I ? She does 
her work and hard as it is, has no anxiety either for the present or the 
future, while I — T — God help me ! how is this to end ? (Rises and 
paces the Stage.) Oh, I have tried so hard to get some employment I 
could do to earn something to give him a little comfort. It is so hard 
to see him suffering and reduced to such poverty after all the luxury 
he has been accustomed to. And he tries to bear it so bravely. If he 
would only let me apply for help to some of our friends of the past. 
But no, he will not — not while he lives, — the Deverell pride will not 
allow it — and so they do not know what we suffer, And I do not 
dare to disobey hin). I do not dare to tell them ; he would never for- 
give me if he found it out. And then if they refused ! The world's 
friendship withers before Fortune's fiown. 

Re-enter SuSAN R tvith an Egg on a Saucer. 

Susan. 'Ere hit his Mum, — good hand fresh, — leastwise has fresh 
has hany City hegg dares to be, Mum ! 



THE NEW GODIVA. 25 

Mrs M. {taking the Saucer.) Thank you, Susan; you are very kind. 
Susan. Lord bless you, Mum, you makes too much hof me. T 
haint used to hit; Em used to bein' shouted hat: "'Urry hup hind get 
hout !" I hunderstand that sort hof thing. But you're ha hangel, you 
are, hand you dont talk that way. I suppose hangels dont know 'ow ! 
Mrs, M. {smiling, ) I am afraid, Susan, I am much below the 
angels. 

Susan. Not very much hon the top floor hof this skyscraper Mum ! 
'Pears to me ha few more pair hof stairs would reach 'eaven ! Got hall 
you want, Mum? 

Mrs. M. Yes, thank you. 

Susan. Then I'll 'ave to leave. They're shoutin' Susan hon hevery 
floor has hif there was a dozen hof me ! (Exits R.J 

Coughing heard again. 

Mrs M. That terrible cough ! it is killing him before my eyes. 
Oh, if I could only get him away from this horrible fog and smoke 
into the fresh, pure air of the country ! {Looks at her purse.) One 
pound and a shilling, — all I have left m the world ! And I do not dare 
te 1 him for fear of worrying him. Oh, Arthur, would I could give my 
life for yours! {Takes the Saucer and goes into Room; then returns.) 
He refuses to take it ; he is fretful and peevish and keeps calling for 
the Doctor. I wish he would come. 

Enter SusAN R. 
Susan. The Doctor, Mum. 

Enter Doctor Hume, R. 
Mrs. M. {advancing to him and takim^ his hand which he has.,ex- 
iended.) Oh, Doctor, I have been so anxious to see you. 
Doctor. Not so well this morning ? 

M ;s. M. I— I am afrnid not. Will you go in? {Opens door of Room 
and exits followed by him. ) 

Susan. Ha nice man that Doctor his ! His hedication 'asn't robbed 
'im hof 'is 'art ! He's so nice hevry time I sees 'im I feels like getlii.' 
sick myself! 

Etiter Tom with a handsome bouquet ofjloivers in a tumbler of water. 
Tom. Ah, Susan, my dear, see what I've brought you. {Hands her 
flowers.) 

Susan, {t :king them.) Forme! 

Tom. Well, no, -not exactly. For your Mistress, Mrs. Morley, with 
the compliments of my Master, Mr. Herbert. Thank you ! (Sits on 
Table.) 



26 ' THE NEW GOUIVA. 

Susan, {smelling flowers.) My! but them's lovely! Smells like ha 
whole perfumery shop. Cost ha pretty penny, I reckon. 

Tom. You reckon correctly. 

Susan, [going to him.') Say, Tom, your Master's ha deep 'un, he 
his! 

Tom. Oh, is he ? 

Susan. He's paintin' ha picture he 'opes to make ha name with— 

Tom. It must be yours ! 

Susan. Ha Lady — ha La Go— something or other — 

Tom. Not that kind of a lady at all, Susan,- a Lady Godiva, — you 
never knew her ! , 

Susan. Hand he wants to get Mrs. Morley to sit for 'im. — that's 
what he's hafter ! 

Tom. {getting off Table.) Oh, is he? Susan, you've got a great 
head ! {Places his hand on her head.) 

Susan. Why, he told me hisself he'd give her fifty pounds, honly I 
hamt dared tell her ! I wish he'd take me. I dont see nothin' wrong 
hm hit ! 

Tom. Susan, you're good but you're not pretty. Your photographs 
will never be for sale in the shop windows ! Dont you be too inquisi- 
tive or ask too many questions 1 

Susan, {going to him.) Why, Tom, I've never heven hasked you 
who you were ! 

Tom. {putting ar)ii around her waist.) Well, dont! I've almost 
forgotten myself. It is enough that I came here with Mr. and Mrs. 
Morley and that I'm now with Mr. Herbert. I h;.ven't improved the 
situation I was in before I came here, but I've met you and it suits me 
to be around these quarters ! 

Susan, {laying her head o)i his shoulder.) Tom, do you know I like 
you? 

Tom. {pressing her heaa down.) Yes, I have discovered that, Susan; 
it shows your good taste. As I remarked before, you're not beautiful 
but you're good. And I was always taught to cling to tlie good. 
{Drazv'ng her closely to him i^i embrace.) I'm clinging ! 

Susan. Oh, Tom! 

Tom. Witness my seal ! {Kisses her.) 

Susan, (freeing herself from him.) Tom ! what are you doing? 

Tom. Nothing, just now ; I've done it ! But if you dont like it I'll 
take it back ! [Kisses her again.) 

Susan. Take that ! {Boxes his ears.) 

Tom. Thank you ! That's returning evil for good ! I'll come 



THE NEW GODIVA. 2; 

again when I cant stay so long ! Fare thee well, my own sweet love. 
We shall meet in the sweet by-and-by ! {Exits R.) 

vSusAN. Well ! that's the first man has hever kissed me ! {Smacks her 
lips.) I lastes it yet— 'taint hat hall bid ! 

Enter Mrs. Mori.ey quickly from Room. 

Mrs. Morley. Susan, a wineglass, quick! He has fainted! {Su- 
san rushes to cupbdard, gets wineglass and bottle of wine, and hands 
them to Mrs. Morley %vho exits into room.) 

vSusAN. Things is gettin wuss ! It will be ha hearse and fixins 
soon hit this dont stop, — with ha couple of solemn -looking mummies 
hat the door fust thing in the mornin', to make the 'ouse Ioo'a cheerful 
hand collect ha crowd ! 

Enter Dr. ^AxiiA^ from room. 

Doctor. (j?V/m^'^rt'/ /a-^/e-.) Give me a pen and ink. {^\5S\-^ does so 
grtting them from ctcpboard.) That will do. {IVrites.) 

8uS.\N (aside.) Goih' to pour some more of that houtlandish Latin 
down the man! {aloud.) Please, Sir, 'ow his the gentleman this 
mornin' ? 

Doctor. Very poorly. You needn't wait. (i:.oV Susan v^.) A bnl 
case — a very bad case. Unless he gets a change to a mild climate, he 
wont be alive in a month. Ikit whafs the use of suggesting it when 
they don't seem to have enough to keep body and soul together as it is ? 
(Rises as Mrs. Morley enters.) 

Mrs. M. He is easier now. {Goin'r to him.) Doctor, I want you 
to tell ire whnt you think of hin. I cannot bear this suspense any 
longer, — it is killing me. 

Doctor, {aside.) Poor woman ! she idolizes him. {aloud.) Will 
you be seated, Mrs Morley? {Hands her a chair. She sits.) 

M cs. M. Tell me the whole truth, Doctor. Is he -is he -in great 
danger? 

Doctor, {after a pause.) In imminent danger! 

Mrs. M. Oh, God ! {//er head falls on table. ) 

Doctor, (going to her.) Mrs. Morley- -control you-self. 

Mrs. M. (rising quickly and grasping his hands.) Save him, — 
save him to me. Doctor ! Is there nothing can be done ? 

Doctor. He must have a change of climate. Under other circum- 
stances I would recommend the South of France ; failing that even the 
Isle of Wight. 

Mrs. M. And do you think — do you think that — would save him '^ 

Doctor. With good nursing it probably would. 



2 8 THE NEW GODIVA. 

Mrs M. It must be done ; he must be saved ! But how- 
ho ! 

Doctor. Pardon me, Mrs. Morley, but I have formed the idea that 
you have seen better days. In such a crisis as this may I venture to 
suggest an appeal to your friends ? 

Mrs. MoRLEY. (a^*/^?/Ve'.) It is impossible. The only friend to whom 
I might appeal with confidence, my husband's oldest friend, is abroad 
with his ship. The others I might think of do not remain in London 
at this time of year; and even if they were here my husband would 
never consent, and knowing him as I do I would not dare ask them. 

UOCTOK. {aside.) Oh, pride, pride! 

Mrs. Morley. We have seen better days, Doctor— much better 
days. My husband was wealthy ; but a trusted agent robbed him of all 
he possessed. He is a very proud man — proud almost beyond concep- 
tion. Had he been less honorable he might from the wreck- of his 
fortune, have saved a competence. But he could only save his honor 
through the sacrifice of all, and that sacrifice was made even to my last 
jewel. Only a few pounds were left us on which we hoped to subsist 
until he could obtain soitie employment; but alas ! this fatal illness has 
frustrated that hope, and I have seen the small sum we had rapidly 
dwindle. He has become too ill to be conscious of this, and I have not 
dared tell him for fear anxiety for me should kill him. 

Doctor. And could you find nothing that you could do? 

Mrs. M. Nothing ! I have tried my needle ; God knows what I have 
not tried ! But everywhere I have found the supply greater than the 
demand. Oh, the bitterness of being crowded out and crushed in the 
struggle for bare existence ! It is terrible— terrible ! 

Doctor, {taking her hand.) Ikno^ what it is, Mrs. Morley. Un- 
fortunately I am a poor man myself with a hard struggle before me. 
But I have never felt my inability to be generous more keenly than I 
do now. 

Mrs. M. I believe you — and I thank you. But I could not accept 
your help. I must end this fight as I commenced it —alone. Suppose 
I accepted money fx-om friends; I could not go on subsisting on charity 
forever. No — some other means /ni^st be found. 

Doctor, {aside.) Shall I tell herV It is a delicate thing to do. 

Mrs. M. {after thinking.) You say a change to the Isle of Wight 
might save him ? 

Doctor. It is more than likely. These London fogs are fast tight- 
ening the clutch of Death upon him. [She turns away tvith a moan and 
sinks in chair by table.) 



THE NEW GODIVA. 29 

Mrs. M. [after a pause.) Is the change necessary— at once? 

Doctor. A delay— even of a few days— may be fatal. (She drops 
her face on her hands and sobs.) 

Mrs. M. My God ! my God ! what can I do ^ 

Doctor, {bending over her. ) Forgive me for paining you so; but it is 
always wise to be prepared for the worst. 

Mrs. M. Thank you, Doctor, and pardon my— my weakness. 

Doctor. Mrs. M3rley, I am going to take the risk of ofifending you 
— perhaps mortally. But believe me, I do so with the sincere desire of 
aiding you. 

Mrs. M. {looking up quickly.) Yes, yes — what is it? 

Doctor. I have a friend — a patient— Herbert by name. He is an 
artist and has a studio in this house. May I proceed ? 

Mrs. M {/Rising — afler a pause and with a ^asp.) Well? 

Doctor. He has seen you and purely with an artist's eye has ad- 
mired your perfect figure. 

Mrs. M. (after a pause — as before). Well ? 

Doctor. He — he has told me that — and believe me he is an honor- 
able gentleman -that he would pay handsomely if I could find him 
some one like you who would sit for him a couple of limes for a picture 
he is painting. 

Mrs M. (Grasps back of chair, staggers, then sinks into chair and 
bursts out weeping. ) Merciful Father ! has it come to this ! 

Doctor. The idea of being a model shocks you. T do not wonder. 
But there is no reason why you should thmk it degrading. It is an 
injustice to many a virtuous woman. 

Mrs. M. No! No ! I cannot do it ! He would kill me if he found it 
out ! 

Doctor. He need never know it- and it may save his life ! 

Mrs. M {after a pause.) To save his life — oh, God, to save his life! 
But I cannot — I cannot ! 

Doctor. Pardon me for mentioning it. I did not mean to insult 
you. 

Mrs. M. (rtsing and taking his hand.) I know it. Doctor, and I thank 
you for your candor and — and your generous sympathy. But what 
you suggest is an impossibility. Heaven may yet send some way of 
saving him. 

Doctor. Good-bye, then, for the present. Any medical skill I pos- 
sess I place at your service only too gladly. Would to God I could do 
more. (Drops her hand a«</ exits R. ) 

Mrs. M. (leaning agaimt chair. ) Is this a horrible dream ? Have I 



30 THE NEW GODIVA. 

not suffered enough in these last sad months but! must be brought face 
to face with this awful reahty ? Oh, Arthur, my own. can it be possi- 
ble a few days may part us forever? {Paces up and down.) It cannot 
be; I cannot believe it. [Stops.) And yet I can see the truth in the 
wan cheeks, in the sunken eyes, in the thin lips pale with the pallor of 
death! It must not— shall not be! [Sinks into .chair.) Oh, the 
folly of my past life, how it comes back to me ! A sum that I wasted 
on a wretched trinket might save his life ! We afe so blin 1 — we are 
so blind ! {Rises.) And yet, what cm I dj -wha:: can I do ? 

[Exits into Room.) 
Enter BuLFixcH R. 

BuLF. [surveying the room.) Hem' isn't very much here I Rather 
a come down for my proud folks. They wont snub Bulfinch quite as 
much as they used to. And if she hasn't had enough of him by this 
time she must be a bigger fool than I take her for. It's Bu' finch's turn 
now — played the cards well to become master of Nort jn Towers, Now 
if I can only become master of its former mistress! She refused me 
once, before she married him. Lvicky for me s'le never t^ld him. 1 
dont know whether I hate her or love her most now ! 
Enter Mrs. MorVy from Room. 

Mrs. M. [seeing him.) Mr Bulfinch ! 

BuLF. Yes my Lady —Mr. Bulfinch. Qaite unexpected, no doubt, 
but I trust will be no less welcome, 

Mrs. M. Oh, thank Heaven ! you have some good news for me, 
then ? 

BuLF. Well, that depends ! Take a seat, Lady Deverell — or do you 
prefer that I should call you Mrs. Morley here ? 

Mrs. M. {sitting.) Mrs. Morley. But tell me. what brings you here? 
Speak — do not keep me in su.spense. 

BuLF. Not so fast, please. How is he ? I heard he was dying. 
(Mrs. Morley bends h.'r head and .<^obs.J You seem to have been hav- 
ing a pretty hard time, — I might say a very hard time? 

Mrs. M. Yes— so hard, oh, so hard ! 

BuLF. [a-< if to hiru-^clf.) A nice man— pretty specimen -to bring 
his wife to tnis ! 

Mrs. M. [springing up.) Stop, Sir You shall not insult my hus- 
band. 

BuLF. Beg pardon ; I didn't mean that for your ears. But you for- 
get how painful it must be to me to see you in this condition ; you 
forget that I have loved you — that \grasping her hand and falling on 
His knees.) I love you still ! 



THE NEW GODIVA. 3 1 

Mrs, M. {struggling to release lurselj). Great Heaven ! must I listen 
to this ? Let me go ! 

BULF. {rising but still holding her.) Vou shall listen to me. I am the 
master of Norton Towers now — 

Mrs. M. You ! 

BuLF. Yes — I bought it at the foreclosure. I love you better than he 
does —better than he ever has. 'Listen to reason : Norton Towers is 
open to you to come back as its mistress, if you will. Dont be a fool ! 

Mrs, Morley. (releasing her hand.) Oh, God! this insult! Leave 
me —leave me at once you miserable cur, before in des])eration I take 
your woriiless life ! Out of my sight ! {Sinks in chair and 7veeps, ) 

BuLF, {composing himself.) Very well; if you prefer heroics take 
the consequences ! I beg to inform you that I am the landlord of this 
house aad my agent tells me there a;e two months rent due. Unless 
it is paid by this evening, to-morrow morning I'll bundle you both out 
upon the street. (Enter Susan R. Stops by door ) 

Mrs M. {rising quickly a7id springing at his throat .) Wretch! vou 
would not dare ! {Bulf. pulls himself away.) 

BuLF. We'll see about that. I can be as merciless to you as you are 
to me — ^I — 

Mrs. M. Stop ! You are drivirg me to madness. Leave this room 
at once. {Turns and goes up.) 

Susan. See 'ere, Mister, why dont you get hout when you're told ? 

Bulf. None of your impudence. I am the Master of this house. 

Susan. I dont care hif you are or not. Get hout ! You wont ? Well, 
I'll make you ! {Catches hold of him and pushes him to door R.) 

BuLF. {in a rage.) I'll discharge you for this, you hussey ! 

Susan, (open'mg door.) Discharge hand be 'anged to vou ! (Pushes 
him out and closes door iiith a bang.) There! 'e's gone quicker than 
'e expected to (Goes to Mrs. Morley who has been weeping.) Why 
didn't you call me before. Mum? 

Mrs. M. {taking her hands.) Oh, Susan, I fear you have got yourself 
into trouble for me. (Dries her eyes.) 

Susan. Not a bit hof hit. Dont you worrit yourself habout me- 
Now, sit down there. Mum, hand decompose yourself. 'E wont come 
back hin a 'urry. (Seats Mrs. Morley in chair by table.) 

Mrs. M. Oh what terrible fate pursues me ! What shall I do —what 
shall I do I (After a moment.) There ! I am better now. (Rises and 
sees flowers on table.) Flowers ! Where did these come from ? 

Susan. Oh, I forgot, Mum. Mr. 'Erbert, the harti..t what has the 



32 THE NEW GODIVA. 

ground floor, sent them with 'is comphments. 'E knew the gentleman 
was hill hand thought 'e might enjoy them. 

Mrs. M. (rlsmg nervously.) The artist again ! What terrible fatality 
is this ? Or is — is it the hand of Providence bringing me reliel ? 

Susan, (going to her.) Theie's more ways than one hof getting 
fitly pounds. Mum. 

Mrs. M. (turni?tg sharply.) What dC you mean ? 

Susan. Well, Mum, — you wont be hangry with me, Mum? 

Mrr. M. No, no, — go on. 

Susan. 'E's painting a Lady - a Lady Go somethin or bother, 
Mum, hand 'e said, Mnm— { fVhispering to her.) 

Mrs. M. How dare you — how dare you ! Leave the room instantly ! 
The insult ! Oh, is ihere no one to protect me ? Do you hear me— leave 
the room ! 

Susan, {sodding — aJ>ron to her eyes.) T only did hit to 'elp you, 
Mum. 'E's a real gentleman hand you needn't be a bit afeerd hoi 'im. 
Forgive me. Mum ! 

Mrs. M. (pacuigup and dotim.) And yet to save him — to save hivi ! 
But the shame — the degradation! God help me ! What shall I do? 
( Severe coughing heard, ) \ 

Susan. Listen to that ! I didn't mean to say no more, but 1 7nust. 
You haiiit goin' to let 'im lay there hand die! 

Mrs. M. (grasping back of chair.) Die ! Oh, God ! no ! no ! He 
must be saved if I sacnfice my soul. (A knock heard.) 

Susan. Shall I hopen the door, Mum? 

Mrs. M. YfS. (Susan opens door. Enter Mr. Herbert.) 

Susan. Mr. 'Krbert. ^Mrs. M, staggers . He rushes to and catclws 
her as she is about to fall. She recovers htrself. SuSAN crosses to 
back of her.) 

Mrs. M. Its nothing; I— I am a little faint. 

Her. Pardon my intrusion; I will call again. 

Mrs. M. No, no — stay, (aside.) To save /m//.' I must ! (aloud.) I 
— 1 have heard — that you- — 

Her. Dont distress yourself, Madam; I understand what you would 
say. You were the ideal I had \w my mind, and I would have liked — 
and though not wealthy I would have been wilhng to have paid — 

Mrs. M. {hoarsely.) How much? 

Her. Fifty pounds ! 

Mrs. M. [ande.) Fifty pounds — fifty pounds ! And twenty may save 
him ! {Slozv music, ve^y low, till Curtain.) 



THE NEW GODIVA. 



33 



Her. {about io leave). But since it distresses you so, Madame,— 
( Severe coughing heard. ) 

Mrs. M. No, no! dont go ! I- (gasping.) I- will— do it ! 

Her. {extending his hand.) You will ! 

Mrs. M. [grasping his hand— after a pause.) Yes ! {Staggers and 
falls fainting to Stage.) 

QUICK CURTAIN. 



34 THE NEW GODIVA. 



ACT III. 

(six months later.) 

Tableau One — The Picture of a Sacrifice, 
Tableau Two — The Reward of a Sacrifice, 



Scene : 



Drawing Room at Miss Antique's handsomely furnished — At back 
C. is a heavy Red Curtain in one piece on Rings so as to be easily and 
quickly drawn back — Behind this Curtain on a large Easel is the 
picture of " The New Godiva," the Curtain when drawn open dis- 
closing the outer Room — •Lounge R. — Small Table L. C, Arm Chairs 
on both sides of it — A newspaper on the Lounge. 

Blanche and Miss Antique discovered seated on Lounge, and Poin- 
destre by Table, 



Blanche. Yes, — Val and I called on Sir Arthur and Lady Deverell 
yesterday. She is just like her old self and he has entirely recovered 
and is more devoted than ever, 

Val. Well, he ought to be. A wife like that is a treasure one 
doesn't often find. 

Blanche. How often does a man want to find one, pray ? Aren't 
you satisfied ? 

Val. I ? Oh, my, yes — more than satisfied. 

Miss An. To think that they should have suffered so much when 
they had so many friends who would have been only too glad to have 
helped them. 



THE NEW GODIVA. 35 

Val. Pride, my dear Miss Antique, — the Deverell pride. Sir Arthur 
carries it to an extreme ; I believe that man would starve before he'd 
accept assistance. 

Blanche. Well, thank Heaven, it is all over now. It was very 
kind of the Admiral, dear old Sir John, to leave her his tortune; tied 
it up by his will, too, so that her husband cant touch it. 

Val. It isn't very much, but enough to keep them comfortably. 
Poor old Sir John, he was always very tond cf her. If he hadn't been 
so far away on one of Her Majesty's ships so that he didn't knt)w any- 
thing about it, they never would have known a day's want. He'd 
have hunted them up and forced them to accept a loan. 

Miss An. 1 wonder they are not here. I want them to come and 
see the great picture. I dont know what it is myself, and I'm quite 
anxious and curious to see it. 

Blanche. What! you haven't seen your own picture ? 

Miss An. To tell the truth, while it is repoited to be mir.e, it isn't. 
It's only been brought here this morning, and its owner's been keep- 
ing watch that it shall not be seen until the frxcnds he's invited 
arrive. 

Val, Who is its fortunate ov/ner ? 

Miss An. My landlord ; and as he's a bachelor I've lent him my 
rooms tor the benefit of his lady friends. 

Blanche. Really, is there any mystery about its owner that you do 
not mention his name ? 

Miss An. Mr. Albert asked me not to. And you know I like to 
oblige him. But I dont mind telling you now because you'll learn soon, 
anyhow. 

Val. Well, who is this great art connoisseur ? 

Miss An. Its Mr. Bu' finch! 

Val. [rising quickl}'.) What! a man who knows as much about 
art as a Diplomat does about truth ! And my dear Miss Antique, you 
have really asked Sir Arthur and his wife to come here? 

Miss An. Why not ? 

Val. And did you tell them that //lat party owned the picture, and 
that that party would be here ? 

Miss An. Oh no ! I didn't say anything about the picture or Mr. 
Bulfinch. I was espeially requested not to 

Blanche. W^ho by ? 

Miss An. By Mr. Albert. 

Blanche. Oh, of course, -excuse me for asking; I didn't think. 



36 THE NEW GODIVA. 

Miss An. Mr. Bulfinch asked him and he asked me. I hope he hasn't 
made any mistake. 

Val. My dear Miss Antique, he has a genius for mistakes. 

Miss An. I — I thought, perhaps, it wasn't exactly the thmg. There 
might be a little feeling. 

Val. Hem ! I should imagine so. 

Miss An. But Mr. Albert says Mr. Bulfinch is anxious to be friendly, 
and wants to make some arrangement to restore Norton Towers to 
them. 

Blanche, My ! how kind. I should never have expected it of him. 

Val. Nor I. But perhaps the devil isn't as black as he's painted. 
{Bulfinch' s voice heard outside: ^^ All right, — all right. Tell them T 711 
here.''') Ah ! here he comes! Suppose you leave me with him; I may 
be the best mediator, and pave the way. 

Blanche, [rising.) Very well. I hope there will not be a scene and 
that it will be all right. 

Miss An. So do I, I'm sure. Shall we go? {rises.) 

Blanche. Dont get into a quarrel with him, Val. 

Val. Oh. no ! you needn't be afraid of that. 

Blanche. Very well; we'll leave you then. {Takes Miss Antique'' s 
Arfn and Exits R. U. E.) 

Val {after they have left.) I certainly dont understand this, and I 
dont half like it. But strange things do happen sometimes! Perhaps 
this is one of the times. 

Enter BULFINCH R. U. E. 

BuLF. {advancing to him.) Ah, my dear Mr. Poindestre, very glad to 
see you. Quite an honor. I'm sure as an artist you'll enjoy my 
picture. 

Val. {coldly.) I didn't know it was yours. 

BuLF. I'm quite aware of it. Very few do know it. Its a surprise 
I have for the public. 

{Enter SiR Arthur R. U. e. Starts back on seeing them.) 

Val. {seeitig him and rushing to him.) Arthur, old man, I'm awfully 
glad to see you. 

Sir Arthur. Thank you, old fellow. Excuse me for interrupting 
you. My wife has gone up-stairs with the ladies, and I was sent in 
here; but — 

Val. {aside to him.) Dont mind Bulfinch; sit down here and read 
the paper while I talk to him a few minutes; it may be to your in- 
terest. 



I 



THE NEW GODIVA. 37 

Sir Arthur. Very well; it isn't agreeable and if I had expected he 
was to be here I wouM not have come; but to oblige you I'll remain. 

Val. Thank you. [Sir Arthur sits on lounge^ takes up paper and 
reads.) 

Val. {aside.) Now I wonder if I'm making a mess of it or rot? 
{Crosses to Bulf. who has ^one to table L C .) It's veiy kind of you to 
give the public a surprise; and I assure you it luill be a surprise to the 
public to find you a patron of art. 

B(JLF. Thank you —thank you very much. But "a thing of beauty 
is a joy forever," as Byron says. 

Val. Oh, does he ? I thought it was Keats. 

Bulf. Well, Keats or Byron, what's the difference so long as he said 
it who said it? But sit down, sit dow,i— I'll tell you all about my 
picture, {aside.) Now is my time 

Val. (seating himself L. of table. Aside.) I must let him bore me 
a little. I suppose, before I tnckle him on Deverell. 

Bulf. {seating himself in arju chair.') The moment I saw that pic- 
ture I said to myself, " Bulfiuch, my boy, that's what you want." I'm 
not much on art, but I know what I like, and I dont care what I pay 
for it. 

Val. {yawning.) One needn't care when one has the cash, 

Bulf, Quite so, — quite so. 

Val. But who's the painter ? 

Bulf. A rising man — a very rising man, — Silas Herbert. {Sir 
Arthur drops his paper.) 

Val. Comparatively unknown, I think, 

Bulf. Yes, —but wont be long. Lived in the forsaken district of 
Bedford Square. {Sir Arthur picks up his paper.) By the^vay, there's 
a romantic, very romantic, story connected with that picture. 

Val. {yawning.) Yes ? What is it ? 

Bulf. Well, for a picture of that kind, you know, — a Lady Godlva, — 
an uiexceptionible model combining a beautiful face with a perfect 
figure was necessary, Herbert hunted a long time before he found 
one to suit, but at last did so in a woman living in his house ; perfect 
face, perfect figure. ( Takts a pinch of Snuff. Sir Arthur moves un- 
easily.) She was the wife of a man in bad health lodging in a miser- 
able attic in the house, and she supported him. They were in a bad 
way very bad way, and she accepted Herbert's overtures and sat 
ouce or twice. Was paid liberally — most liberally. Odd part of it 
was she disappeared with her husband immediate!^ aflerwards, 



38 THE NEW GODIVA. 

and Herbert hasn't been able to find her since. {Sir Arthur has pressed 
paper close to his face.') 

Val. I know most of the good models, — what was her name ? 

Bui.F. Let me see, - let me see. {Takes out a Note Book.) But you 
musn't let it go any further; it was lold me in confidence, quite ac- 
cidentally, as it were. Have I your promise ? 

Val. Why, of course. 

BuLF. {turning leaves of book.) I made a note of it somewhere's, — 
y.js, here it is, — name Mrs. Morley ; address— 15 Charlotte Street. 

Sir Arthur. {Rising quickly aud crushing paper in his hand.) You 
lie! 

BuLF. {he a7id Val. rising quickly.) What's that ? 

Sir Arthur, {crossing to him.) I say you lie ! 

Val. {cro:>sin\^ and taking his arm.) Deverell, let me entreat you to 
keep c^lm. 

Sir Arthur, {pushing him away.) Stand back! The lady this 
scoundrel has slandered is Lady Deverell, my wife ! 

Val. aside. ) What insanity to have forgotten this ! 

BuLF. {with bravado.) I know you and your infernal pride of old, 
Sir Arthur. But I did not know when I mentioned the name that 
Mrs Morley and Lady Deverell were identical. Still, I repeat it. Mrs. 
Morlev of Charlotte Street sat for Herbert's Lady Godiva as surely as 
I stand here. 

Sir ArthctR. {grasping him by the throat.) You cur ! You double 
liar ! You know I adopted the name of Morley for you wrote me under 
that name. Retract what you have said or I will break every bone in 
your miserable body! 

Val. {taMtng hold of him.) Deverell, —Arthur, for Heaven's sake 
dont let us have a scene ; all London will talk of it. 

Sir Arthur, {releasing Bulf.) Am I to stand here and listen to 
such a foul aspersion on the purest woman who ever lived? whose 
name in this fellow's mouth is pollution ? Great Heavens ! what do 
you taki me for? {To Bulf.) Once more, will you recall your words? 

En'er R. u. E., Blanche, Albert and Lady Deverell ; l u. e., 
Miss Antique and Herbert. 

Bulf. I will not ! They are the truth ! 

Sir Arthur. Then take the consequences! {Springs at him. Lady 
D. rushes down and between them and catches his arm as he is about 
to strike Rulf.\ 

Lady D. Stop, for Heaven's sake ! Arthur, what. does this mean ? 



THE NEW GODIVA. 39 

Sir Arthur, It means that this villi.m hns slandered you ! that he 
says you have been an artist's model ! 

Lady D. (as/de.) Oh, God ! he has heard ! {aloud.) It is a lie ! 

Sir Arthur, {takmg her hand.) I know it. And he shall an wer 
for it ! 

{Positions on Stage: Bulf. by Table L. C; Sir Arthur on his R., 
Albert and Blanche up Stage near R, U. E.; Herbert and Miss An. 
!<a?ne position L. U. E ; Val. back of Bulf. between him and Sir 
Arthur. Lady D ^s face is turned partly away from the. audience.) 

Bulf. Oh, is it V Suppose you ask the artist himself,- there he is ! 

1 ADY D {aside,') Merciful Heaven ! I nm lost ! 

Sir Arthur, {to her.) Kate, bs brave; dont tremble so. {She clings 
to him. Herbert has come partly down next to Vi I.) 

Val. {to Herbert.) Even if it is true deny it— for her sake ! 

Bulf. Mr. Herbert, I have been called a lif-r. I want you to till 
this maniac who sat for your picture of Lady Godiva; he chooses to 
disbelieve your word to me. 

Herbert. Surely you have not broken my confidence ? 

I>ULF. I have been forced to. 

Herbert. You are unfair to an unfortunate woman, — unfair to me. 
And a man who will batray confidance is a man who will lie ! 

Val. There, Arthur, be satisfied. 

Sir Arthur, {dropping Lady D's. hmd. I am not. {Lady D. 
turns back fully on Audience and sobs S) t want an explicit denial. Mr. 
Herbert, this man has cast a foul aspersion on my wife; he calls upon 
you to prove it, — I call upon you to deny it. 

Herbert I know nothing ot Lady DeverelL— I have never seen 
her. {Sir Arthur grasps his hand. Blanche has come down to Lady D. 
who is sobbing on her shoulder^') 

Bui f. But you have heard of Mrs Morley ! 

Herbert, {after a pause,-^dropping Sir Arthur's hand.) 1 — have 
never heard the name ! ( Turns to go up.) 

Sir Arthur {to Bulfnch.) You infernal scoundrel ! you shall hear 
from me! Come, Kate. {Turns as if to go.) 

Bulf. One moment ! {Sir Arthur turns to him.) This is a con- 
spiracy against me. But I have better proof than words, — I have 
the picture. It is behind that curtain. Look at it I (Moves to go up.) 

Val. {stopping him.) Siand where you are ! 

Lady D. [rushing to Sir Ar/hur and grasping his arm. J Arthur, 
you are killing me. Come home, for mercy's sake, for the sake of all 



40 THE NEW GODIVA. 

you hold dear on earth or in heaven, come home,— come with me,— at 
once ! Dont look at it, I beg, T pray of you ! 

HuLF. You see, — she is afraid ! You dyre not look at it ! 

Sis Arthur. You hound! I dare ! 

Lady D. {dinging to. him.) Arthur, in the name of Heaven — 

Sir Arthur. Out of n!/ way ! I'll brand this man a liar out of his 
own mouth ! [Pushes her off, rushes up stage and draws Curtain back 
quickly, disclosing the Picture. Calcium light thrown upon it. N. B.. 
This nmst he done rapidly.) My God ! it is my wife ! [Lady D. rushes 
after him, falls on her knees with boured head and in attitude of in- 
tense shame at his feet, hands outstretched.^ 

Lady D. Mercy ! have mercy ! 

Quick Curtain on Tableau.* 

Curtain is raised almost iinmediately for 

Tableau Second. 

Scene is the Same. 

Lady D. is on her knees by Lounge on which her face is hid. Sir Ar- 
thur stands back of Lomige at the L. corner, one hand resting upon 
its back. 

Lady. D. See ! I am at your feet, humbled and broken inspirit. In. 
the name of common justice hear me, — let me — 

Sir Arthur, Silence ! Henceforth we must be strangers. If one 
so lost to shame needs consolation let it be in the fact that I do not 
curse you for the disgrace you have brought upon me ! {crosses.) 

Lady D. {rising and extending her hands appealingly. ) Oh, Arthur, 
be merciful! It was for your sake alone, — to save you, as Heaven is 
my witness ! 

Sir Arthur, {turning on her.) For my sake ! How dare you put it 
upon me when you know I would rather have died of starvat on in the 
streets then lived to learn your shame ! I wonier my bran has borne 
even the thought of it without driving me mad ! 

Lady D. {falling on her knees at his feet.) Spare me, for the love of 
Heaven ! I cannot endure this ! 

Sir Arthur, (standing over her.) Spare you? Did you spare me 

* The painting should be carefully done. Face should be portrait of Actress 
who plays the part. Ail of the figure sh uld be covered by the '"Godiva's flowing 
locks" except the bust and feet, and over all should be painted g mze drapery. 
Great care shcjld be taken to a\oid all suggcstiveness or indecency. To accomplish 
the effect intended the picture should, in fact, be a work of Art. 



THE NEW (lODIVA. 4I 

when you sold my race to shame? when you forgot that which is 
dea.e ,^ , Hfe-my honor > Do you thinU I cat ever looi:: \ 
the face of my fellow-mun again as I did before ? Even now I can s e 
hem po.ntmg the finger of scorn at me,-I can hear them saying 

See! there goes the m,,n whose w.fe sold her charms to a painL of 
niked heroines, worse than a common wompn of the town ' 

Ladv D (././„^ ^„,,^/, W>./«. /./,;,.) stop! I have suffered 
too much already, I have humbled myself in the dust, but this I will 

M:^Mthout which my own would have bee , worthless, I have sacri 
heed myself as no woman ever sacificed herself before. You cannot 
know, you cannot nnagme the bitter pang that sacrifice involved - 
he mghts of wdd agony, the shame, the horror-which will haunt me 
to the grave, that I suffered for you ! Let it pass. Hut for the honor of 
my sex, standing here alone and defensless, I repel your foul 
imputation with utter scorn and I challenge you to repeat it-if you 
dare! ^ 

Sir Arthur. Enough of this ! {Jams io ^o.) 
Lady D, Stay ! you sAa// hear me! 

Sir Arthur. Be quick then. The soDner this is over the better 
^itszn arm-chair. She stands back of table.) 

Lady D. You have heard my shame-you have not heard my mis- 
erable story. You thought the wretched pittance we had saved was 
sufficient to mamtain us during your illness. It was not. Despite all 
I could do, despite semi-starvation on my part, it was gone before you 
were ill two months. ^ 

Sir Arthur. Why-why did you not tell me ? 

Lady D. Because worry would have killed you, and I wanted to 
save you. So I strove, as never before woman has striven, to wear a 
cheerful face while my heart -my heart was breaking. Often while 
you slept I walked the streets at night in search of any employment no 
matter what, that might enable me to provide you with some little 
luxury. Even then I respected your injunctions and never begoed 
from a living soul, though my heart was heavy and my broken spirit 
was sorely— God knows how sorely ! ^ tempted. 

Sir Arthur. I cannot listen to this. {Attempts to rise. She pushes 
him back into seat.) 

Lady D. You must ! The sorest tenjptation came upon me at a tin.e 
when I was almost mad. The Doctor told me that unless you were 
immediately removed from the smoke and fog of London you would 
die.-you, my life, my all ! And that man who has disclosed my secret 



42 THE NEW GODIVA. 

to day, came to our wretched place, which he owned, and after insult- 
ing me with a vile proposal, threatened to turn us into the stieet if he 
was not paid at once ! 

Sir Arthur. Oh, but he shall pay for this ! 

Lady D. Then came the temptation. I fought with with it, I strug- 
gled with it till my blood , froze and my brain was on fire. Your life 
hung upon my resolve. Had there been one friend near to whom 1 
could have appealed, in that extreme moment I would have disobeyed 
you and made the appeal. But there was not one — not one ! I was 
alone— utterly alone in the heart of a great, pitiless City ! Oh, the 
terror and the desolation of it ! I knew that the money my sacrifice 
would earn would s^ve you. I forgot myself, I forgot everything save 
that you were dying before my eyes, and it seemed as if Heaven had 
opened me an avenue of relief. And so — so, with a heart of lead and 
a bod/ of ice, I went, as Martyr never went before, to my terrible 
sacrifice. And I would have done it if the doing had periled my soul ! 
(Crosses and sinks on Loiitigc in a paroxysm of sobs.) 

Sir Arthur. Enough — enough ! {Rises.') The life you have saved 
is worthless with such a stain as you have put upon it. I would rather 
have died ten thousand deaths of torture, than that you should have 
made my name a thing of scorn ! {Enter Val. and Blanche fro7n be- 
hind Curtain qnietly and unseen by the}?i.) I can pity you— I cannot, — 
no never, — forgive you ! 

Lady D. (rising quickly.) I do not want your pity when your love 
has gone. And dear as you are to me stiil, I cannot again ask for 
mercy of one who sets the opinion of a cold, merciless world above the 
love that lives through all eternity! (Turns and sees Blanche.) Blanchel 
(Throws herself on Blanche's bosotn. Blanche embraces her.) 

Val. (Stopping Sir Arthur who is going up to exit R. U. E.) Arthur, 
dont make a fool of yourself. 

Sir Arthur. You mean well, but ycu do not know what you are 
doing. Let me pass. 

Blanche. Pardon me, but we will do no'hing of the kind, — not. at 
least, until yau hear what I have to say. We have been eavesdroppers, 
*- confess it. We have heard what has passed between you and your 
wife. 

Sir Arthur. You cannot defend her. 

Blanche. I can do more; I can give her a closer place in my af- 
fection than she ever had I can — 

Sir Arthur. Without intending to be rude, I must decline to listen 



THE NEW GODIVA. 



43 



to anythinn; further. I cannot argue with you. The only course I 
€an adopt is to take my leave. 

Blanche. Not until you have heard a woman's opinion of the cow- 
ardly course you are pursuing. It is hard forme to believe that any 
man could bs guilty of the base desertion of a wife who has made such 
a sacrifice for his sake. 

Lady D. Oh, Blanche, Blanche, do not upbraid him ! 

Blanche. Be quiet dear; I mean to have my say. 

Sir Arthur. As a woman, Mrs. Poindestre, you cannot appreciate 
what, under such circumstances, a man must feel. 

Val. One man, at least, indorses her opinion. I do ! 

Sir Arthur. Ah, it will be the same story, no doubt, every v^ here. 
But if you — 

Lady D. (releasing herself from Blajiche' s arms and facing hitn.\ 
Enough ! Go ! but remember this : much as I have loved you, dearly 
as I love you now and always will, I can never forget what 
has passed to-day,- I can never forgive you, I never w/// forgive you 
till, when you have lived to repent this day, you come to me on your 
knees asking for pardon for the cruel wrong ) ou have done me ! Mr. 
Poindtstre, let him pass ! ( Val. moves aside.) 

SiK AktiW]"^. [going fo R. U. E.) Farewell! {Exits.) 

Lady D. (as the door closes.) Gone ! Arthur, my love, my husband ! 
O God ! (Ealls into Chair by Table, burying her face in her hands, 
and sobbing. Blanche rushes to ajtd bends over her; Val. stands back 
of Table. Picture.) 

END OF ACl' in. 




44 'I^HE NEW GODIVA.. 



ACT IV. 

(one year later.) 



FOKGIVEN I 



Scene: 



Drawing Room at Chiswick Villa tastefully furnished — Windows K- 
and L. at back, and large Bay Window C. back, through which the 
Garden is seen — A. Cradle with Infant in it near IJay Window— Sofa up 
Stage R, — Handsome Writing Table with two Chairs R. ar.d one L. of 
it, half-way up Stage L. 

Lady Deverell discovered by Cradle rocking it, I^'usair on the other 
side by Window. As Curtain rises Lady D. sings Lullaby "Rock-a' 
by, Baby." Afcer Song goes to Writmg Table and comnrences writing, 
while Susan goes to Cradle and bends over it. 



Susan. Pootsey wosey, you pretty little dear ! Was you sayin' 
Mamma "wouldn't come hand talk to 'oo ? Do stop writing, my lady; 
you're wearin' your heyes hand your 'art hout cryin'. What's the use 
thinkin' hand worryin' over what his past ? 

Lady D. I cannot help it, Susan. If I had not been guilty of an act 
which drove him from me — 

Susan. Now, please dont be 'arping on an old story 'E would go 
away to Haustralia hand 'e went hand got shipwrecked; hand as the 
hold Minister says, for you to be a foiever grievin' over 'is loss when 
you have this 'ere little hangel to think hot\ is a findin' fault with 
Providence. Vou saved 'is life once, but you couldn't go on doin' it 
forever. 

Lady D. {aside.) Oh, Arthur! Arthur! if I could only have seen 
you once more; if you could only have lived to have forgiven me ! 
( ff ipes her eyes with handkerchief and resumes writing. ) 

Susan, {aside to baby.') There! you little darlin'! The honly thing 



THE NKW GODIVA. 45 

nurse 'as against you his tliat you look so mucli like your father. [A 
knock hea^d.) Shall I hopen the door, my lady ? 

Lady D. {>:(oppiiig writing.) \(ts. [Susan goes to door R. and opcus 
it. Enter Blanche and Val. Lady D rises and greets them.) Ah. 
Blanche, — Mr. Poindestre, — I'm so glad to see you. 

liLANCHE. And how is baby ? 

Susan, [at cradle — excitedly) There! I knew hit ! There's a tooth 
comin' ! [Lady D. and Blanche rush to cradle.) 

Lady D. and Blanche, {together.) Wheie is it? Let me see ! 

Blanche. Oh, my, it's true ! The baby's cutting a tooth. Come, 
Val. and look. 

Val. [going to them.) I beg your pardon, my dear ; the tooth's 
cutting the baby I 

Blanche. Oh, you horrid man! you dont know anything about 
babies anyhow. 

Val. I'm waiting for you to teach me something, my dear. 

Blanche, [boxing his ears.) Val, I'm ashamed of you ! 

Val. That's nothing ; I'm ashamed of myself. 

Susan. There now ! 'e's goin' to cry ! I must take 'im hand put 
'im to sleep. ( Takes baby in her arms and exits R. U. E.) 

Lady D. Wont you be seated ? {They seat themselves., Lady D. by 
table., Blanche next to her and Val on other side of table.) 

Blanche My dear Kate, Im going to ask you something that, per- 
haps, sounds very strange. Has it ever crossed your mind that some 
day there might be a chance of your boy recovering the Deverell 
estates ? 

Lady D. {rising ) I — I dont understand you. [Suddenly .) You 
— you have some news for me ! 

Val. (going to her.) My dear Lady Deverell, pray be seated ai.d 
dont get excited. Blanche has simply expressed au idea that somehow 
I have always entertained. 

Lady D. Pray do not trifle with me. Next to the loss of— of — my 
husband comes my sorrow for the future of my boy. Sometimes I 
dream I see him grown to manhood, living in the old home and adding 
lustre to an ancient name by a generous and noble use of his we.ilth ; 
and then - then I awake to the bitter reality that the inheritance which 
should have bcea his is lost to him .forever. 

Blanche, [putting her arms around her neck.) My dear Kate, do r.ot 
misjudge us. I had a motive in asking the question. Some circun- 
stances have come strangely to light that may yet bring for yoi r 1 oy 
the future you desire. 



46 THE NEW CJODIVA. 

Lady D. Oh, Heaven ! is it possible ? 

Val. My wife soys so — and I am too wise a husband to contradict h'jr, 

LadyD. For pity's sake do not keep me in suspense. What is it 
you have heard ? 

Blanche. Come here. {Tak.s her to sofa R.) Now sit down by 
me -so. [Thty sit.) Now s-^iveme your h nd and promise to listen 
q lietly. ( Val sits by table. ) 

Lady D. Yes, yes — go on ! 

bLANCHE I hardly know how to commence. You see, Val has a 
great friend who went to Australia, and we've just received a letter 
fro .11 him in \\hich be snys he had a strange meeting with the man » ho 
Caused all your troubles — Percival Keith. 

Lady D. Percival Keith ! Is it possible ? 

Blanche. More than possible — its true. Val, suppose you tell the 
rest ? 

Val. Oh no ; I always let my wife finish when she starts— its good 
policy. 

Blanche, {smiling.) You see I've trained him well. Well, Val's 
friend was making an excursion into tlie bush M'hen he came to a 
house which had been robbed by thieves and its owner stabbed and left 
for dead He wasn't dead, but dying. He seea.ed to have something 
on his mind, and on being told his end was near, made a full confession 
of his crimes. That man was Keith. 

Lady D. {after a pause.) But my boy — how does this affect him ? 

Blanche. Because Keith confessed that he and Bulfinch had robbed 
an.l swindled Sir Arthur, 

Lady D. {rising.) At last ! I always suspected it ! 

Blanche, {rising and taking her hands.) Between them they had 
concocted a scheme to ruin Sir Arthur* Many fictitious deeds were 
drawn, s^.iie of which Sir Arthurs really signed, but the signatui-es to 
the most important were forged by Bulfinch himself ! 

Lady D. Yes, yes — what else ? 

Val. {risiitg.) Keith was involved and had to leave the country. 
Bulfinch knew it and used pressure, promising to send him five thous- 
and pounds after he, as supposed mortgagee, g;ot pos ession of the es- 
tates. vSo Keith fled and Bulfinch, from time to time, has been sending 
him barely enough to keep him alive 

Lady D. And now he is dead — dead ! And the truth cannot be 
proven. 

Blanche Oh, yes it can, or we wouldn't have said anything about 



THE NEW GOniVA. 



47 



It. Keith gave Val's trieiid papers and letters in Bulfinch's writing 
which would convict him a dozen times— wouldn't they, Val ? 

Val. a dozen ? There's no need to limit the number. And besides 
there's a dying confession attested by witnesses along A\ith the other 
papers in my friend's pocket. 

Lady D, [liirning /o him eagerly.) And your t'rif.nd— when will he 
be here ? 

Val. Be sea ed while I calculate it. You are weak. (Lady D. sits 
by table; Blanche sits on sofa,) You see, the letter somhow miscarried 
and has been a long time coming. He said he would leave on the 
loth and— let me see, — yes — he ought to be here now. 

Lady D. Justice— justice at last, thank God ! Oh, if he had only 
lived to know this. (Vol has gone to Blanche and is whispering some- 
thing to her. Lady D, rising suddenly,) You are keeping something 
back from me I 

Blanche, {rising and going to her.) Dear, I fear to tell you— you 
are not strong ; the shock — 

Lady D. [falling on her knees.) Tell me, ^ — for pity's sake tell me. 
Is it of — him ? 

Blanche. Yes ! 

Lady D. [rising — in a whisper.) Is — is he alive ? 

Val. [rising,) Yes — and coming here ! 

Lady 1). Thank God I Thank God ! (sin^s into chair.) 

BlanxHE. [bending over her.) Quick, Val, she has fainted! [Lie 
goes to her.) 

Lady D. [recoverign.) No, — no,— the shock— I was a little weak ; 
but I am strong now, [After a pause.) Then— then he was saved 
from the wreck } 

Val. He was cast upon a desert island,— the only soul of all who 
were on the doomed steamer to be saved. From there, after months 
of suffering, he was rescued by a vessel blown out of her course by a 
hurricane, and t.iken to Australia. 

Lady D. And your friend - your friend — 

Val. Is Sir Arthur himself ! 

Lady. D. [dropping her head on table.) Oh, Arthur! Arthur! 

Blanche There ! Im afraid we've been too abrupt. Please calm 
yourself, 

Val Yes, you must ; because I want a promise. 

Lady D. [looking up.) What is it ? 

Val. That you will not say a word ot this to a living soul until I 



48 THE NEW GODIVA. 

give you permission. Dont ask me any questions, — I have tny reasons. 
Will you promise ? 

Lady D. [after a pause — extending her hamiiohich he takes S) Yes. 

Enter SusAN R. U. E. 

Susan. Miss Han tique hand Mr. Halbert. {They enter. Exit 
Susan.) 

Miss An, [coming doivn.) My dear Lady Deverell, good morning. 
And Mrs. Ponidestre ! [I'hey exchange greetings.) 

Albert, (luho has gone to Vat.; aside to him) My dear boy, look out 
forme, wont yovi? The old girl's going for me heavier than ever to- 
day, and I'm ah-aid every hour I'll be a goner! [Val laughs.) 

Miss An. We were just going by and I thought Id diop in and show 
you a new photograph Henry and I have had tt'ken to , ether. You 
have them in your pocket, Henry. 

ALBERT. Ye-s, ye-s. [To Val.) Its no use, its Fate — I'm a goner, 
old boy — let me go ! [Gong to her and feeling in his pockets.) Which 
— which pocket did I pui: th:iai in, old girl ! Did — [accidentally steps on 
her foot.) 

Miss An. (screauiing.) Oh ! oh ! You've killed me ! 

Albert, [confusedly.) 1 beg pardon. - beg pardon old girl. Here. — 
take this ! ( Takes a stnall bottle from his pocket.) 

Blanche. Why. what's that ? ^Lady D. has led Miss Antique to sofa 
li??iping, and seated her. Sits by her.) 

Albert. Cure for corns ! Excellent t'ling! My own invention. 
Lemon juice in there — pearl shirt buttons dissolved in it, — cures corns 
ill no time ! [Going to Miss Antique.) Here, old girl, [kneeling,) let rae 
try it on you ! ( They are all smothering laughter.) 

Miss An. [indignantly .) Henry ! 

Albert, {rising ) No, no, of course not ! I mean try it on yourself, 
—of course, — of course, [aside ) Hang me if I want to I [Blnnche and 
Val. are together by table. ) 

Enter Susan r. u. e- 

Susan. My lady, can I see you a moment, please, 
L.\DY D. [rising.) Excuse me. [Goes to her.) What is it? 
Susan. Mr. Hulfinch his 'ere ! 

Lady D. He! What does this mean? Mr. Poindestre — please. 
[Poinds stre goes to her. ) Mr. Bulfinch is here I 

Val. What ! The very man I've been hunting for all morning ! 

Lady D. What shall I do? 

Val. See him — see him by all means. I know it is painful, but 



THE NEW (iODIVA. ^g 

oblige me and see him,-do not breathe a word of what you knou, and 
keep him here as long as you can ! 
LadyD. If—if I must! 
Val. Blanche! 

Blanche Yes, dear. (Goes to him. Ih zohispers to her She 
comes down to sofa wh.re Miss Antique has been sitting resting he- 
head on Albert s shoulder and holding one of his hands while with the 
other he has been rubbing her forehead) Excuse me; but would you 
mind taking a stroll in the garden with me a few minutes? 

Albert. {JumJ^iMg up and almost falling back through Miss Antique's 
holding on to his hand.) Certainly not,— certainly not. 
MiSb An. (rising.) Henry, your arm. {Takes his arm.) 
Albert, {aside.) Its no use,— old girl's bound to have me and Em 
booked! Anyhow, she's got money-that's a consolation. 

Blanche. This way, please. {To the others ) We'll return in a few 
minutes {Exite R. folloived by them.) 

Val. Now. Lady Deverell, please follow my instructions. Be 
brave and all will be well. Can I depend upon you ? 
Lady D. {giving her hand.) Yes. 

Val. Then for the present, au revoir. Now Susan, show Mr. Bui - 
finch up, {Exits R.) 

Susan, Show 'im hup! 'e ought to 'ave been shown hup loner a^o' 
(Exits R. V\ E.) 1 *> s • 

Lady D. I feel like one in a delightful dream who fears to wake lest 
the airy visions of his sleep should vanish into nothingness ! Oh, can 
it be true that happiness is coming to me once again ! My heart is 
beating with mingled joy and fear, and my brain feels in a whirl. 
{exits R. ) 

Enter Susan, r, u. e. 

Susan. Well, well, hif I hever! The brass of that BuJfinch his 
honly hequalled by 'is wickedness. Hif Tom catches 'im 'ere, there'll 
be a row sure as my name's Susan, {Sitting on chair by table. ) Talking 
of Tom I wonder when 'e's ha agoin' to come to the point with me. 'E's 
slow - no mistake. {Enter Tom R.) Ah ! Tom his that you? 
Tom. (going to her.) It is, wootsey I 

Susan. I was just a thinkm' habout you, 

Tom, {sitting on arm of chair and putting h's arm around her. ^ 
Susan, you could not employ your time more profitably. What wos 
you thinking? 

Susan. I was a wonderin' whether you were hever goin' to finish 



50 THE NEW GODIVA. 

what yoii st irted sayin' to me the hother day. I m willing to join 
hands hand travel with you. 

Tom. Your confidence touches me deeply — here. {Points to his 
hjart.) But we'd have to travel on our shape, and I'm afraid we 
wouldn't get far. 

Susan, (rising.) I've money hin the Bank hanl so 'ave you ! 

Tom. (holding her off at ar in'' s length.) Susan, I have heretofore 
remarked that you have a great head. If you had had a different 
father and mother you might have been Q)ueen of England — you actu- 
ally m ght. And the way you combine love with finance is truly 
touching. 

Susan. I know you're worth a 'undred pounds hat least, hand with 
what I've got we can live nice hand 'igh. What do you say ? 

Tom. Come to my arms ! {Pulls her suddenly to him so that she falls 
into his arms.) Since you are so anxious, Susan, its a go ! We can cer- 
tainly live high enough with our wealth; in fact, my dear, we can live 
away up in the at'Jc. 

Susan [nsstling on his breast.) Oh, Tom! 

Tom. You needn't hide your face. Susan, if it isn't the prettiest in 
the worll, there's none more honest. And that's better ! And if you 
want to be Mrs. Tom, yours truly is witn you. 

Susan. Oh, Tom, I ham so 'appy ! 

Tom. And, vSusan, we'll die as rich as anybody e'se 

Susan, [crossing.) Why, Tom, what do you mean ? 

Tom. We'll leave the entire world behind us, wont we ? And I 
guess that's about as much as anybody else can do ! But never mind, 
Susan, we'll do the best we can and take our chances on the rest. Come 
to my arms once more and seal the bargain ! {Opens his arms, she 
rushes to him, he embraces and kisses her.) Um ! that's good ! 

Enter Lady Deverell R. 

Lady D. Susan ! 

Tom. [aside.) Caught in the act, by jingo ! (Susan rushe.f to table 
and confusedly dusts it with her apron, ivhile Tom runs off R.) 

Lady D. Susan, where is Mr. Bulfinch ? 

Susan. Beg pardon, my lady ; I forgot hall habout 'im. I'll send 
'im right hup ! . [Exits R. U. E ) 

Lady D. The old, old story — the same in the kitchen as in the par- 
lor. Ah, me ! [Goes to table and sits.) And now for Mr, Bulfinch. 

Enter BULFlNCH, R. u. E. 
BuLF. Lady Deverell ! 



THK NEW CODIVA. 5 1 

Lady D. [withoid looking af JiiJ/n ) Be seated. 

BuLF. (sitting on lounge aside. ) How beauliful she is ! I have tried 
to keep away from her. I have struggled to crush the only passion I 
have ever known in my life, but it is too strong for me. {aloud.) You 
are no doubt surprised by my visit, Lady Deverell ? 
Lady D. lam. 

BuLF. It is a long time smce we last met and it has taken some 
courage for me to come here. I need not -I need not refer to painful 
subjects nor attempt to explain my past conduct which, no doubt— of 
•course, I know it has, — has prejudiced me in your eyes ; but what T 
have done wa|.not my fau.t, — it was forced upon me by ciicumstances ! 
Lady D. Indeed ! 

Bui.F. Yes, — one must defend himself. For one occasion I can make 
no excuse except — except that my love p.nd passion were too much for 
me. 

Lady D. [aside.) Love and passion ! He classes them together as if 
Vice and Virtue were the same thing. 

BuLF I need not specify that occa ion ? 
Lady D. {sharply.) No! I have not forgotten it. 
BuLF. I have not ventured to intrude my presence upon you siftce — 
since that d ly at Miss Antique's. I wanted to come when I heard of 
yoarloss, but I fear.-d that yoi still thought — rightly, rightly, of course, 
— too ha^ d of me. But now - now that you have had time to become — 
reconciled— in a measure, in a measure, I mean — I thought that per- 
haps in looking back you might have found some— some palliation for 
me, and- -and — 

Lady U. (aside.) How long must I endure his hateful presence ? 
{aloud — after a pause.) Well ? 

BuLF. And so I have <3ared at last to come and apologise, and ask 
if it is not possible for us to be friends. 
Lady D. Is that 'all ? 

BuLF, {rising.) No ; I thought, perhaps, the time had now come 
when I might refer to something touching the future welfare of your 
child . 

Lady D. (rising and leaning on table.) Ot'my child? And how — 
how can you influence his future V 

BuLF. (aside.) Hem ! I have scored a point. {Aloud). By a series 
of misfoitunes your son has been deprived of his ancestors" estates ; rnd 
it is hard that the — we'll say mi> takes — of others should be visited upon 
so young and innocent a head. I— I want to say that under certain 
(conditions be may yet inherit the patrimony which is justly his due. 



52 THE. NEW GODIVA. 

Lady D. What do you mean ? 

BuLF. I surprise you. of course — quite natural. I know you dont 
give me credit for the possession of a single good feeling or impulse. 
All the same, my Lady, it is my honest wish that all ill-feeling between 
us should be cast aside and that your child should eveniually possess 
the estates I have referred to— under certain conditions. 

Lady D. {sitting — aside.) He has heard I He think I am ignorint 
and hopes to m.ake a compromise through me. Never ! {aloud.) Well — 
and the conditions are — 

BuLF. Did I say conditions ? I meant condition. 

Lady I). Be good enough to state it. • 

BuLF. {approaching her.) I will. I want to say, though that I 
dont ask you to accept it now or to give me any answer ; I only make 
it as a suggestion for you to- to think over at your leisure. I give 
you your own time. 

Lady D. {after a pause.) I am listening patiently. 

BULF. Hem ! The condition is that you will, — not now, of course, — 
evdn a year will do, — become my wife ! 

Lady D. [sprijtging tip.) How dare you insult me with such a vile 
proposition ! 

BuLF. {astonished.) Hem! I said my luife. What's wrong about 
that? Yoa seem to mistake me. 

Lady D. I did mistake you in imagining for an instant that you 
would make any restitution to my child of the estates of which you 
robbed his father. For the proposition you have dared to make no 
words can express my loathing ! 

BuLF. (crossing to behind her.) Very well. J intended to do you a 
great service ; but smce you prefer my enmity 1 will slow you that it is 
in my power to injure you still ! By Jove, Madame you ought to 
know thai I am not a man to be trifled with ! 

Lady D. Your threat only increases my contempt for you. Rather 
than listen to your proposal I would beg my bread fiom door to door ! 

BuLF. Fine words for one who drove her husband to exile and dejtth 
by- 

Enter Sir Arthur hurriedly r. u. e. He is followed by Val. and 
Detective in plain clothes. 

Sir Arthur. Liar! I am alive ! {Rushes to Lady D.) 
Lady D. Arthur ! \Falls into his arms.) 



rilK NKW (K)I)IVA. 53 

Sir Arthur, {c/urr.ici/ii^ /wr.) Uarliug ! Do not speak. 

Val. [to Biilf.~7oho has tunu-d to ov.J Hold on, Mr. Bulfinch 
Dont be in a hurry. My friend here wants your company. He's 
what is called a detective. 

1)111 F. I dont understand you. Let me pass ! 

Val. Not yet. I presume you know Percival Keith's signature. 
(SAow/'ng dociimejit ) Do you recognize it ? 

BULF. Damnation! What does this mean ? 

Detective, {throiving opm his coat mid showing badge and taking 
him by the arm.) It means that you're wanted for forgery and a few 
other things. 

BuLF. This is a viJe conspiracy ! Let me go ! 

Detective. Not a bit of it. And you may as well come quietly be- 
cause I h ive assistance below and a i air of nippers in my pocket. 
Come along ! 

BuLF. Curse you all ! [Detective exits with him R. U. E.) 

Val. [at door.) I say, Bulfinch. if ever you get out of jail, come to 
me and 111 see you're taken back again. [Exits R. U. E.) 

Lady D. And Lave you really come back to me ? 

Sir Arthur. Yes, darling ; come to ask your forgiveness for the 
cruel wrong I did you ; come, never to leave you in life agam ; come 
to protect you from evil tongues and evil men forevermore See ! on 
my knees I ask your pardon. (Jaieels.) 

Lady D. [raising him.) Rise, Arthur, —do not kneel to me. 

Sir Arthur, (embracing her.) I see now, clearer than I ever saw 
before, there is a Providence rules over us ; and even when Its decrees 
seem most cruel and hard to bear they are most wise. Had you not 
s It for that picture, I should never have recovered my possessions. 
The very act for which I condemned you most cruelly has been the 
m ans of detecting a villian and restoriiig us to tl.e dear old home ! 

Lady D. And am I quite forgiven ? 

Sir Arthur. Forgiven ! Ah, Kate, the pride of the Deverells 
dwindled to a very small thing when I was alone on that desert island 
of the Indian Sea. The scales fell from my eyes and I learned to con- 
trast your noble self-sacrifice with my own miserable selfishness. 

Enter Val and Blanche, r. Alherf mid Miss .Antique, l. 

Susan, r. u. e. 

Lady D. Oh, Arthur ! Let us forget the past, rcmembeving only 
the les:on it teach • That misnamed pride wh-H^ ^-"-c 'he sneers nnd 



54 THE NEW GODTVA. 

scoffs of ail unthinking world, is false and foolish ; that is true pride 
which, conscious of its rectitude, dares brave criticism and is not de- 
terred by the dread of the multitude's censure. And that love is the 
only true love for which no sacrifice without dishonor is too great ! 

Positions at Fall of Curtain : 

Susan. 

Vai. and J^LANCHK. Albert ^w^/ Miss An. 

Sir Ar. and Lady D. 

R. C. L. 

CURTAIN. 




2Sl°^ INGRESS 



015"9i'g''™«« 



